Province making final move away from old health cards

The provincial government is starting the final transition away from red and white health cards.

As of July 1, 2020, the traditional cards will no longer be accepted for OHIP-covered services.

“The advanced security features of the photo health card help protect our public health system and is another measure to improve value for taxpayers’ dollars,” said Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health. “While there is no cost to convert or renew an Ontario photo health card, there could be significant costs by allowing red and white health cards, which could be used fraudulently, to remain in circulation. Each month, individuals using these outdated cards access up to $108 million in health services.”

Starting this month, individuals with red and white health cards will begin to receive letters letting them know they will need to get a photo health card at a ServiceOntario centre before the July 1 deadline.

Photo health cards can be obtained for free at ServiceOntario by bringing the right original documents, such as proof of Canadian citizenship or OHIP-eligible immigration status, proof of residency in Ontario and proof of identity. Other options include completing a health card re-registration form.

Regardless of one’s health card status, Ontario’s public hospitals cannot refuse to provide services to a patient who is faced with a life-threatening medical emergency.

Red and white card holders who do not convert by Canada Day may be asked to pay up-front for insured health services.

Once a photo health card is obtained, eligibility for Ontario health insurance is restored and any payments made for OHIP-insured health services will be reimbursed once a valid health card is provided.