When it comes to getting reimbursed for your health and dental expenses, there are a few steps you can take to avoid unhappy surprises.

Larger expense? Get a pre-determination.

If you need a product or treatment that’s pricier – you should get a pre-determination from Canada Life before you move forward. That way, you can be sure whether or not it’s covered, and you’ll also know exactly how much of the expense will be paid back to you.

Some health providers (e.g., dentists) can submit a pre-determination on your behalf. If this is not available, you can submit a standard Canada Life claim form and be sure to check the box labelled pretreatment/estimate.

Is your health provider on the list?

Insurance companies de-list health providers who either don’t qualify as a recognized specialist in their field or who don’t meet the insurer’s criteria for reimbursement. If a health provider is de-listed, you will not be reimbursed for any services or products they provide after the date they have been de-listed.

If you’re using a new health provider – for example, a massage therapist or vision care provider – check the Canada Life website first. Here’s how:

On the website >

1. Go to https://www.canadalife.com/sign-in.html and sign in.

2. From the left menu, select Resources, then Find a provider.

3. In the section Ineligible providers, you can either scroll through the list or search for your provider’s name.

On the app >

1. Log in.

2. From the top of the screen, select Find a provider.

3. Select Ineligible providers, and either scroll through the list or search for your provider’s name.