Frequently Asked Questions
Canada's First Wait List Insurance


Why do I need Medical Access Insurance?
Long waiting lists in the health care system have caused Canadians to suffer many hardships; worry, anxiety, stress, pain, deterioration of health, loss of work and income, and the resulting negative effects on concerned family and friends. Wait List Insurance (MAI) helps you by providing rapid access to top quality medical care.

What Is MAI?
Medical Access Insurance (Canada's first Wait List insurance) provides Canadians with expedited access to specialist consultation (see MAI Plus+), diagnostics, and surgery for over 135 treatments and conditions. Medical treatment for covered conditions will be provided in weeks, not months or years. Our policyholders are serviced independently, resulting in shorter waiting times for others.

How does it work?
If a physician recommends a covered diagnostic procedure or surgery and you are placed on a medical waiting list more than 45 days long, MAI will arrange to expedite your diagnosis and treatment in the United States or, in Canada when services are available. Specialist Coverage Rider is also triggered by a 45 day wait list.

Do I have to wait 45 days before treatment begins?
No. Call us right away. Once services are approved we will expedite your treatment immediately. You do not have to wait 45 days for treatment to begin.

Does MAI cover my travel expenses?
Approved travel expenses are covered for the basic program which also covers approved companion travel expenses. However, travel expenses are not covered for the Specialist Coverage Rider.

What is MAI Plus+?
MAI Plus+ provides you with insured access to Specialist consultation for 10 Specialist categories. Recent studies show that seeing a Specialist within 21 days of referral by your GP may result in a reduction of the intensity of treatment and recovery time by as much as 75%.

How much are the premiums?
Our average monthly premium, including family, is only $75.41 CDN for MAI Basic and $109.02 CDN for MAI Plus+.

Is MAI available through an employer group benefit plan?
Yes, MAI is also available as a group product for businesses with 2 or more employees. This includes sole proprietors, partnerships, unions, corporations or professional corporations.

How much coverage does MAI provide?
MAI has a lifetime maximum of $1,000,000 per individual.

Will my premium increase if I make a claim?
No. MAI premiums are rated according to your age and the type of coverage you choose e.g., single, couple, single with children or family.

Are there any co-payments or deductibles?
No. Payment of your monthly premium is all that is required. We settle all claims on your behalf directly with the service provider.

I have a pre-existing condition. Does this exclude my participation in the program?
No. Any conditions that you have suffered within the 2-year period prior to taking out the policy will automatically be waived after your policy has been in effect for 24 consecutive months.

Will I need a medical exam?
No medical exam is required. Simply complete the application form.

Who can purchase MAI coverage?
Enrolment is currently available to age 74, with coverage to age 75. Additionally, groups with 20 or more participants may apply to cover retired employees.

Does MAI replace my current provincial health plan?
No. MAI was designed the assist the public health care system by providing supplementary coverage to the provincial health plan.

Will MAI cover me while I am abroad?
The policy covers you while you are a resident of Canada and placed on a Canadian medical wait list. For medical coverage when abroad, you need to take out a separate travel insurance policy.

Does MAI comply with federal and provincial health acts, including the Canada Health Act?
Yes, MAI complies with all federal and provincial regulations.

Are there any exclusions to coverage?
Yes. In common with all insurance policies, there are certain exclusions and limitations. For a complete list of exclusions please consult the policy.

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