Doctors warn refugees’ health will suffer as payment requirements take effect
Refugees in Canada are now required to pay $4 per prescription and 30% of supplemental health costs, including mental health, dental, and vision services, under changes to the Interim Federal Health Program. Medical and advocacy groups warn these co-payments will harm refugees' health, especially those already living in poverty or suffering from trauma. Experts argue that denying access to essential care could lead to higher long-term health system costs due to worsening conditions.
- ▪Refugees must now pay $4 for each prescription and 30% of supplemental health services.
- ▪The Interim Federal Health Program still covers full costs for doctor visits and hospital care.
- ▪Over a dozen health and refugee organizations, including the Canadian Medical Association, oppose the changes.
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Open this photo in gallery:Asylum seekers near Montreal, Que., in 2017. Refugees must pay $4 for every prescription and 30 per cent of the cost of supplemental health products and services.Paul Chiasson/The Canadian PressShareSave for laterPlease log in to bookmark this story.Log InCreate Free AccountRefugees now have to pay out of pocket for part of their drug prescriptions, mental health counselling, dental services, vision care and health equipment – including wheelchairs – as changes to a federal program take effect. For decades, Canada’s Interim Federal Health Program has provided complete health coverage to refugees and refugee claimants until they are eligible for provincial health plans and benefits.
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