Nobody can predict the future. That’s why it is best to be as prepared as possible for any challenges that life may throw at you. Personal health insurance is worth looking into to ensure you will have access to quality healthcare in the event of a medical emergency.
If you don’t have personal health insurance yet or are looking to replace your existing plan, CAA could be an option. Read our in-depth review to find out all the information you need to objectively decide if CAA health insurance is the right fit for you and your family.
CAA Health Insurance Review
CAA (the Canadian Automobile Association) offers two pre-packaged health insurance plans: Basic Extended Healthcare and Enhanced Extended Healthcare. In addition to these two plans, you have the option to select different types of coverages individually to create a customized plan. The insurer offers a 30-day free-look period, in which you can terminate the policy and get a refund of the premium paid at the time of purchase.
CAA health insurance can be an option if you:
- Don’t have group health insurance
- Are going to lose your group health coverage due to a job change or retirement
- Need more protection than the basic coverage provided by your group plan
Pros
- Ability to build a plan that fits your needs best
- 30-day free-look period
- You get a discount when you bundle health and dental insurance with another type of insurance product, like auto, home, or life insurance
Cons
- No option to file claims online
Types of CAA health insurance products
CAA gives you the option to mix and match health insurance coverages that you want to create a customized plan or pick either of its two standard plans: Enhanced Extended Health Care and Basic Extended Health Care. The following table highlights the key differences between these two plans.
What is covered by CAA health insurance?
CAA offers two personal health insurance plans:
- Enhanced Extended Healthcare
- Basic Extended Healthcare
With both these plans, you can mix and match drug and dental coverage to build a plan that fits your needs and budget. Here are some plan choices offered by CAA and the benefits they provide.
What is covered by CAA dental insurance?
Even though dental insurance is not automatically included in CAA health insurance, you can add it to your plan by paying a little extra premium amount. You can choose from three dental care plans: Dental 1, Dental 2, and Dental 3. Knowing what each of these plans cover and what they don’t can help you pick the plan that works best for you.
With the Dental 1 plan, you’ll be covered for preventive dental care treatments, including:
- Extractions, scaling, and fillings
- X-rays, tests, lab exams
- Dental diagnosis and exams
The Dental 2 plan covers the same things as the Dental 1 plan, but has higher reimbursement rates. This means each time you file a claim, you’ll get more of your eligible expenses reimbursed than the Dental 1 plan. The Dental 3 plan is the most comprehensive of all and includes orthodontics and restorative dental treatments as well.
The following table shows a side-by-side comparison of all these three plans.
How much does CAA health insurance cost?
CAA’s Basic Extended Healthcare with coverage for dental care and prescription drugs costs around $100 a month for a 30-year-old, non-smoker male. But keep in mind everyone’s rate will be different. The final quote you’re offered will be based on the coverage you select and personal factors, such as age, health, lifestyle, location and gender.
Generally speaking, the earlier you buy health insurance, the lower the monthly premium, since you’re less likely to develop a chronic health condition. Insurers take into account your medical history and lifestyle habits as well. For instance, if you have a serious health condition or use tobacco, you’ll likely pay a higher rate.
Typically, women receive higher premiums for health insurance than men, as they tend to file heftier and more claims. Where you live also impact your premium rate. If you live in a city where cost of living is higher than the national average, your premiums will likely be higher than someone who lives in a less expensive area.
The simplest way to ensure you receive a fair price for your health insurance cover is to speak to an independent insurance specialist. An independent advisor will compare policies and prices across the market for you, making it easier for you to compare CAA’s offerings and prices to other plans and pick the best deal. Contact an advisor at Dundas Life today to get the best price!
Does CAA offer guaranteed issue health insurance?
Yes, it does. Unlike standard health insurance plans, guaranteed issue health insurance doesn’t involve medical underwriting, meaning you can get coverage without the hassle of medical questions. CAA’s guaranteed issue health & dental cover is designed for Canadians who want to replace their group health insurance cover or are looking to supplement it. With CAA’s guaranteed issue health insurance, you can get coverage in just a few minutes and enjoy a wide range of benefits, including:
- Coverage for prescription drugs (including pre-existing illnesses, depending on the plan you select)
- Coverage for your dependents
Does CAA health insurance cover pre-existing conditions?
Some CAA health insurance plans cover pre-existing conditions, defined as illnesses you had before your coverage began. If you have unique needs, consult an independent insurance advisor before purchasing health insurance. He or she will walk you through all the available options so that you can objectively decide which plan is best for you.
Does CAA offers a bundle discount if you buy multiple policies from them?
Yes, it does. CAA doesn’t sell just health insurance. Instead, it also sells life, auto, and home insurance products, among others. Like many insurers who sell different types of insurance, CAA offers discount rates for bundling multiple policies.
- You can get up to a 10% discount on both health & dental insurance and term life insurance when you buy them together
- You can get up to a 10% discount on health & dental insurance premiums when you bundle it with auto or home insurance
How to buy CAA health insurance?
You can apply for CAA online through their website. Choose the health insurance plan that fits your needs best and provide the necessary details, such as age, gender, and the coverage amount. Alternately, you can speak to one of their representatives directly by calling 1-844-538-7454 and request a quote.
Conclusion
CAA health insurance can help you supplement your provincial health plan or replace group health plan. The provider offers two pre-packaged plans, which you can buy as they are or mix and match them to build a customized plan. However, before you sign up for CAA health insurance coverage, it is best to get quotes from other providers, like Desjardins, Canada Life, or GSC. to ensure you are getting the best deal. This is something Dundas Life can help you with. We will provide you with personalized, free quotes from multiple providers, guide you through your options, and help you pick a health insurance policy that’s right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I make changes to my CAA health insurance plan?
If you want to make changes to your plan, like updating personal information, adding or removing a dependent, or adding or removing an add-on, contact CAA customer service. They will guide you through the necessary steps.
Can I customize my CAA health insurance coverage?
Yes, CAA often allows some degree of customization for health insurance coverage. You may have the option to buy add-ons (like dental cover) and purchase higher limits for certain types of coverages. Customization options may vary depending on the plan and your location, so read the policy document or speak to an advisor to understand how you can tailor the policy to your needs.
Can I add my dependents to my CAA health insurance plan?
Yes, CAA health insurance plans generally allow you to add dependents, such as spouses or children, to your coverage.
What’s the difference between life insurance and personal health insurance?
Life insurance help you secure the financial well being of your loved ones in the event of your untimely demise. Your policy will pay your beneficiary a tax-free, lump sum, which they can use however they like. A personal health insurance plan, in contrast, protects you against unexpected and ongoing healthcare costs by covering expenses not covered by your provincial plans.
Depending on the plan you buy, it may cover prescription drugs, hospital accommodation, ambulance services, dental care, vision care, medical supplies, and paramedical services.