In Israel, like in many other countries around the world, there is a national health insurance system that guarantees the right to free medical treatment for every citizen and permanent resident. The situation is similar in Canada for immigrants and permanent residents, but there are some differences. If you are planning to settle in Canada, it is important that you still purchase private health insurance in Israel – at least for the first period. Canada has one of the best public health systems in the world, which provides medical insurance and medical treatment to every citizen, immigrant, or permanent resident. Seemingly, if you are immigrating to Canada, you no longer need Israeli health insurance or any private insurance.
However, this is not entirely true: In the first three months of your stay in Canada, you are not entitled to national health insurance (Medicare), so it is important to contact a health insurance agent to purchase private health insurance. You can purchase such insurance in Canada as well, of course, but as Israelis, there are insurance plans designed for those traveling abroad for extended periods, and it is highly recommended to consider purchasing such a policy here in Israel.
Why? Language and Comprehension Differences
When you purchase health insurance here in Israel, you purchase it in Hebrew. Unless your native language is English or French, it is likely that you will find it easier to understand the policy terms and various clauses when it is written in Hebrew. In the event of a policy claim – an insurance event or claim – you will be able to communicate in Hebrew, which will make things much easier for you.
Easier – Especially in the Initial Stages
The first months and period in a new place can be challenging: you need to take care of housing, studies or work, and acclimation in general. It is easier to deal with various bureaucracies when someone is assisting you in your language and understands you and your expectations.
Care from Israel – Local Assistance
You are not alone, even when you are abroad: perhaps you are leaving behind relatives in Israel – parents or siblings – who can help you in case of need? It is clear that if your agent and insurance company are located here in Israel, everything is easier, even for those helping you from a distance.
Coverage During Homeland Visits
Many immigrants or those traveling abroad for years never sever their ties with Israel. Even those who have received foreign citizenship still visit Israel from time to time or even stay here for relatively long periods. Policies designed for Israelis abroad often cover their stay in Israel, and even in other countries.
And Private Insurance Is Still Private Insurance
Even if the healthcare services in Canada are excellent, it is still a public healthcare system. Private health insurance provides you with various rights and benefits that may sometimes be lacking in national insurance, however good it may be. It is therefore advisable to check the costs of Israeli private insurance compared to other private insurance, the benefits included in it, and its terms, and consider it as an insurance option.”
