Group Health Insurance

Group health insurance is employer-sponsored coverage providing employees and their families with extended health benefits beyond provincial healthcare, including prescription drugs, dental, vision, and wellness programs. How It Works Employers usually pay part or all of the premiums, with employees contributing through payroll deductions. Coverage often starts after 30–90 days, and families can usually be included. Group plans offer lower costs, guaranteed acceptance, and better coverage than individual plans. Benefits

• Core Medical: Prescription drugs, paramedical services, mental health support, hospital upgrades
• Dental: Preventive care 100%, basic 80%, major 50%, orthodontics for children
• Vision: Eye exams, glasses/contacts, safety glasses, annual allowances
• Additional: Travel insurance, ambulance, hearing aids, wellness programs, EAPs

Advantages

• Lower premiums and employer contributions reduce costs
• Higher benefit maximums and coverage for pre-existing conditions
• Convenient payroll deductions, direct billing, and easy claims

Eligibility Full-time employees, some part-time staff, retirees, spouses, and dependent children are usually eligible. Continuation options exist for those leaving employment. Employer Benefits Offering group health insurance attracts talent, provides tax advantages, improves satisfaction and productivity, and allows plan customization to fit budgets and employee needs. Costs Premiums vary by group size, demographics, coverage, and claims history. Monthly costs typically range from $75 (employee-only) to $500 (family coverage).