All Posts by Health Plus

5 Questions to Ask When You Shop for Health Insurance

5 Questions to Ask When You Shop for Health Insurance

Comparing health and dental insurance can be overwhelming. There are a ton of plan options out there, each with different coverage inclusions, limitations, and eligibility requirements. To find the best plan for you, it's important to look beyond the cost, and learn how to evaluate insurance options based on what they offer and your unique needs. 

To help you choose the plan that's right for you, here are several questions for your prospective insurer. Before you ask these questions, make sure to ask yourself what matter most to you. What do you want from your coverage? Are you looking for a low-cost plan, extensive coverage for peace of mind, or a plan that will cover a pre-existing condition? In general, plans with better coverage and plans that don't ask medical questions cost more. The best options available to you will depend on your personal health history, needs, and budget. 

After you've narrowed the field a little, try to answer these questions to help decide what's best for you. 

1. Can I qualify for a better plan?

Guaranteed acceptance plans (plans that don't ask health questions) are easy to apply for, which can make them seem like a good choice if you're strapped for time and just want to get coverage in place. However, if you're healthy, they are almost never the best option, costing more and covering less. Similarly, ultra low-cost options only include very limited coverage and low maximums. This could mean you pay more out-of-pocket in the long run if you need to access heatlhcare not covered by your plan. These plans are better than nothing, but if you're purchasing health insurance to protect against future health expenses, a low-cost, low-coverage option is a big risk. It's a good idea to compare multiple comprehensive plans before deciding on one for the best long-term value. 

2. Are there any lifetime limits, per-visit limits, or waiting periods that will affect my coverage?

Different types of limits are common in insurance. To evaluate health coverage properly, make sure you look closely at the details. Are seemingly high maximums limited by low combined maximums? Will low per-visit limits mean you have to pay more out of pocket when you need treatment? Here's a brief overview of some of the limits than can affect your coverage.

Combined Maximums - This is the maximum for multiple services combined. It often applies in addition to the maximums that apply to each individual service, and it's typically lower than the total of the individual maximums. For example, the individual limit might be $500 for each of massage, physio, chiropractor, naturopath, psychologist, etc., while the combined maximum might be $1000. 

Per-Visit Limits - In addition to overall maximums, some services may have per-visit limits or a limit for each session of a covered service. This means you will only be reimbursed up to a certain dollar amount for a service, regardless of what you paid. For many plans per-visit limits are lower than the going market rate of a service, which can lead to paying more out-of-pocket. 

Lifetime Maximums - In addition to annual maximums, plan may apply a lifetime maximum for a particular service or item. Once the lifetime maximum is reached, the service is no longer covered under your plan. 

3. Will my plan have any exclusions?

Most medically underwritten plans (plans that ask health questions) either exclude pre-existing conditions from coverage or charge an additional premium to cover the additional risk. Plans may also exclude certain categories of medication or treatment. Common exclusions include weight loss medications, fertility treatment, and smoking cessation medications. Plans with exclusions may still be the best option for you because they can offer enough additional coverage to provide value. However, it's important to evaluate plans based on what you will actually be eligible for given your health history rather than standard coverage. Exclusions may extend beyond a particular medication to any current and future treatment for the condition or any related health issues. Your advisor will be able to confirm if the plan you're considering will be subject to any exclusions. 

4. Will my rates go up?

Once you get a quote for coverage, you'll want to know how long the rates are good for. Just like other products and services, health insurance premiums may go up over time due to increasing healthcare costs and inflation. Some plans also increase rates automatically with age, typically starting at age 45. It's impossible to gauge all future increases. However, you can ask about age-related increases you will face in the future, the amount of the most recent general increase, any rate guarantees, or if there is an already scheduled rate increase coming soon. 

5. Will I have access to a personal advisor or claims support?

You want to be confident there is someone to contact if you have any questions about your coverage or how to claim, need to change or cancel coverage, or want additional insurance. Most large insurance companies have extensive support departments to help with any questions or issues, but you are unlikely to have a personal advisor to contact. If you work with a smaller company or independent broker, you may have a dedicated advisor who will handle your requests and can help with all your insurance needs. 

You can decide which is most important to you, large 24/7 call centre access, or direct contact with a smaller team of dedicated, expert advisors. 

Other factors you may want to consider ...

  • Is there any online portal or mobile app for easy claims?
  • Does the plan offer pay-direct for prescriptions drugs or other healthcare providers?
  • Is there a specific service or medication that you want covered?

Insurance is an important decision. Remember, what's right for somebody else may not be what's best for you. It pays to take the time to ask the right questions. 

Our advisors are always here to help.

medically underwritten health insurance

Why do insurance companies ask health questions?

Why do insurance companies ask health questions?

If you've looked into health insurance you've likely noticed plan options with 'no medical questions asked'. These plans are often heavily promoted by insurance companies. It's simple to apply and coverage is guaranteed. Sounds pretty good, right? Well, maybe. If you're healthy, a medically underwritten plan - a plan that asks health questions - is almost always better for you. Read on to learn which plans ask health questions and why it matters to you. 

What is 'medically underwritten'?

A medically underwritten insurance plan is one that asks health questions when you apply. An underwriter reviews your answers to these questions to determine eligibility, premium (your costs), or if there will be any exclusions from your coverage based on your health. Because the insurance company can review you health history to assess potential future healthcare needs prior to acceptance, these plans can offer better coverage for less. In contrast, a guaranteed acceptance plan does not ask health questions.  

Why do insurance companies ask health questions?

  1. 1
    Risk Assessment
    Health insurance is all about managing risk, for plan members and the company. When an insurer asks health questions, it can better estimate risk associated with insuring an individual, in particular the risk that someone with a pre-existing condition will require future care and therefore cost more to cover. Of course, many people will require expensive healthcare - that's the point of insurance - but if the plan primarily enrolls people who are less likely to experience high health expenses, the overall expenses the plan must pay out will be less. This translates to lower cost for the plan members. 
  2. 2
    Underwriting
    This is the process in which the insurance company evaluates the information provided by an applicant to determine eligibility and rate. Depending on the health of the applicant, coverage may be approved, offered with exclusions or an adjusted rate, or declined. 
  3. 3
    Price
    Insurance premiums are set based on the risk factors associated with the plan members and history of claims paid by the plan. Rates are adjusted for a variety of reasons, including a change in overall claims within the plan, age of a plan member, or existing health conditions. 
  4. 4
    Fraud Prevention
    Believe it or not, fraud is a serious problem in the insurance industry. The health information provided at the time of application can help prevent future illegitimate claims, which increase costs for both the insurance company and plan members. 

What type of questions are asked?

Health insurance applications ask about your current and past health, whether you have been diagnosed with or sought treatment for any health conditions, whether you are taking any prescription medications, or expect to receive treatment in the future. Questions generally cover both physical and mental health. 

Do you need to get a medical exam?

No. Medical exams are not typically required for health and dental insurance. Some life insurance policies do require a medical exam prior to approval, but many do not.

Who should apply for a medically underwritten plan?

Anyone in general good health should apply for a medically underwritten plan instead of a guaranteed acceptance plan. Medically underwritten plans are far better value than plans with no medical questions because they offer more coverage for less money. If it turns out you don't qualify for the underwritten plan your advisor can help you find an alternate option. 

Who should apply for a guaranteed acceptance plan?

Guaranteed acceptance plans are a good choice if you have existing health expenses and are not eligible for a medically underwritten plan. While coverage maximums are lower, these plans can still cover a portion of your current expenses and offer additional protection for other health needs that arise. Unfortunately, many insurance companies push guaranteed acceptance plans to people who don't need them to help protect their bottom line. When healthy people without costly current health expenses join a plan, it keep claims lower and boosts insurer profits. 

Why didn't I have to answer health questions to join my workplace plan?

Group insurance plans offered through an employer have different rules than individual plans. All full-time employees must be allowed to participate regardless of their health history. The risk of high claims cost is taken on by the employer who is responsible for any increased rates the insurance company charges. 

Shouldn't health insurance be available to everyone regardless of health?

Health insurance is available to most residents of Canada through the provincial government. Private health insurance is meant to supplement the limited coverage provided by these government plans and guaranteed acceptance plans are available to everyone regardless of health history. 

Will my health information stay private?

Yes, When you complete an application, you release your information to the insurance company for the purposes of determining your eligibility and administering your policy. Your personal information is not shared with third parties not directly involved in the administration of your insurance. 

What if I leave out some health details when I apply? Will I get better coverage?

When you complete an insurance application, it is important to answer all questions honestly and completely. Not doing so could constitute insurance fraud and may result in coverage limitations, termination of your coverage, or even legal consequences. It's also important to remember, your insurance advisor wants to see you covered. The information you provide helps the advisor find the best plan that matches your needs. 

Are Health Plus PRIORITY and OPTIMUM plans medically underwritten?

Yes. Health Plus plans require a health questionnaire to apply. However, Health Plus treats pre-existing conditions differently than other providers. In many cases, people with pre-existing conditions qualify for coverage at an adjusted rate that covers existing medication and treatment. Other plans typically exclude the pre-existing condition and any related treatment entirely. Plus, if you're self-employed, the extra premium is also tax deductible. The best way to know if you qualify is to apply. There is no commitment on your part until we confirm your coverage and rate with you, and you give us the go-ahead to enroll you in the plan. 

burnout

Wellness Moment: How to Avoid Burnout

Wellness Moment: Let's Talk Burnout

Burnout is a very real issue facing Canadian workers, particularly at this time of year, when it’s cold and grey, and you feel like it’s been weeks without seeing the sun. While certain professions such as healthcare workers are particularly at risk, burnout can affect anyone regardless of occupation. Knowing the signs and symptoms and having a plan in place to manage stress and take care of your mental and physical health can help prevent or reduce the effects of burnout.

What is burnout?

It’s essentially exhaustion, mental, physical, and emotional. More than a little fatigue after a busy week, burnout can cause depression, lethargy, and even physical symptoms such as back pain, headaches, or gastrointestinal issues. Feelings of anger, dread, cynicism, hopelessness and irritability are all signs. Burnout is often coupled with drug or alcohol abuse as those who suffer try to cope.

What causes burnout?

Burnout is caused by prolonged stress, whether that’s job, relationship, or financial. The most common form is workplace burnout. An excessive workload, poor communication, unreasonable demands, lack of support, and feeling unappreciated are all contributing factors.

What’s the difference between burnout and stress? 
Stress comes and goes and it’s typically the result of an existing challenge or demands on your time. Burnout develops over time as a result of chronic stress and leaves you disengaged and feeling emotionally depleted.

How to prevent burnout?

We all know avoiding all stress is simply not possible. Setting boundaries in advance and learning coping strategies that work for you will help prevent burnout.

  • Practice Self-Care – We know it’s a cliché, but making time for self-care, whether that’s meditation, a relaxing bath, cooking your favourite meal, a movie night with your partner, or a good workout, can have a big impact on your health.
  • Make time for activities you enjoy – Staying involved in hobbies and spending time with people who enjoy the same things you do helps you feel engaged in your life, something burnout can take away.
  • Set firm boundaries – It can be hard to say no, particularly in your job, but communicating clear boundaries helps prevent overwhelm and feeling taken advantage of and can actually help make you a better employee.
  • Take time off – Whether it’s a vacation, a mental health day, or stepping back from a project, some time away can mitigate stress.
  • Get lots of sleep – Sleep is so important to all aspects of your health. This means 7 to 9 hours a night.
  • Get help managing stress – Talk to a professional, learn healthy coping mechanisms that work for you, communicate the problem, and if possible, distance yourself from the stressor.

Are you at risk for burnout?  This online tool can help assess your work-related stress so you can take action: Learn More

What if you're already burnt out?

Let’s be real, enforcing boundaries is easier said than done and when you’re busy and overwhelmed, self-care can take a back seat. That said, if you think you may be suffering from burnout, it’s important to take action.

First and foremost, know that  you’re not alone. More than 40% of Canadian workers have reported feeling burnt out. The symptoms you’re feeling are real and there’s no shame in seeking treatment. Luckily, there are tips and resources available to help.

Acknowledge how you’re feeling – It’s easy to downplay stress, but while increasingly common, feeling of burnout are not normal. The first step to dealing with burnout is paying attention to the signs and symptoms.

Take a break or a leave of absence – Separate yourself from the source of stress, even temporarily.

Talk to a professional – Seek support from an expert who can guide you through proven stress management techniques and help you build emotional resilience.

Make a plan for moving forward – Ask yourself:  what can I do to change the situation that led to burnout?  That might be a big a step such as changing jobs or other strategies such as reducing work hours, delegating tasks, hiring help, limiting contact with negative people, or connecting more with supportive people.

Resources included in Health Plus PRIORITY and OPTIMUM plans:

  • Inkblot Member Assistance Program (MAP) – including 5 free hours of professional counselling
  • Tranquility iCBT (internet-based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy)
  • Psychology/Social Work Coverage - up to $1000 per year

Tips for Employers

Burnout costs companies money in lost productivity, work absences, and high employee turnover. As an employer, it’s in your best interest to have safeguards in place to prevent burnout and actively support your team. This can include help managing workloads, clearly communicating tasks and expectations, recognizing achievements, and offering mental health support such as an employee assistance plan.

There is no need to accept burnout as a part of life. With the drastic increase in recent years, it can start feeling inevitable. It is not. It is preventable and treatable.

Nouvelles prestations de bien-être de Maple

Health Plus + Maple Virtual Healthcare

Nouvelles prestations de bien-être de Maple

Health Plus est fier de s’associer à Maple pour offrir de nouvelles prestations et améliorer les prestations existantes à tous les adhérents des régimes Priority et Optimum de Health Plus.

Health Plus a commencé à inclure les prestations de bien-être dans ses régimes en 2019, sans frais supplémentaires pour ses adhérents. Nous savons que la population canadienne a besoin de ressources qui dépassent le cadre des soins de santé traditionnels. En particulier, nous comprenons l’importance de l’accessibilité des soins de santé mentale, mais il existe trop souvent des obstacles au traitement.

C’est pourquoi nous nous engageons à offrir des solutions innovantes aux adhérents des régimes de Health Plus pour les aider à mieux prendre soin de leur santé physique et mentale. Avec Maple, les adhérents peuvent accéder immédiatement à un médecin de premier recours agréé par téléphone. Les prestations de bien-être comprennent également des services de conseil gratuits et des ressources pour un large éventail de sujets liés à la vie et à la santé, notamment la gestion du stress, les relations, les finances, le perfectionnement professionnel et les problèmes liés au lieu de travail, et bien d’autres choses encore.

Tous les régimes PRIORITY et OPTIMUM de Health Plus comprennent désormais trois nouveaux services fournis par Maple, sans frais supplémentaires pour nos clients.

Consultation en ligne de Maple 

Les adhérents des régimes de Health Plus ont un accès illimité, 24 heures sur 24 et 7 jours sur 7, à des médecins de premier recours agréés au Canada, où qu’ils se trouvent dans le monde, par texte, audio ou vidéo. Obtenez un diagnostic et une ordonnance envoyés directement à la pharmacie de votre choix ou livrés à domicile.

Programme d'assistance aux adhérents Inkblot 

Le programme intégré d’assistance aux adhérents offre un accès 24 heures sur 24 et 7 jours sur 7 à des ressources numériques en matière de carrière, de santé, de relations, de conseils financiers, etc. Les adhérents bénéficient de 5 heures gratuites de counseling personnel, de counseling de couple, de guidance professionnelle et de guidance de santé.

Tranquility iCBT

Le programme innovant de thérapie cognitivo-comportementale sur Internet (iCBT) de Tranquility, offre aux adhérents des régimes des leçons numériques de CBT, des exercices pratiques et un soutien guidé pour promouvoir le bien-être mental.

Pourquoi Maple?

Nous savons qu’il est difficile pour de nombreux Canadiens de trouver un médecin, en particulier dans les zones rurales ou isolées. Et même si vous avez un médecin de famille, vous devrez peut-être attendre des jours, voire une semaine ou plus, pour obtenir un rendez-vous. Maple peut vous aider.

Fondé par un médecin en 2015, Maple est un spécialiste des soins de santé virtuels au Canada. Maple constitue le plus grand réseau de médecins en ligne au Canada et s’engage à améliorer l’accessibilité aux soins de santé grâce à des soins en ligne pratiques et conviviaux.

Le partenariat de Maple avec Inkblot permet aux adhérents d’avoir accès à trois excellents services régis par une seule organisation, sans frais supplémentaires ni demandes de remboursement.

Si vous avez des questions sur la couverture de Health Plus ou sur les nouveaux services de Maple, n’hésitez pas à nous contacter. Notre équipe est là pour vous aider.  

Maple virtual healthcare

New Wellness Benefits from Maple

Health Plus + Maple Virtual Healthcare

Health Plus Partners with Maple to Introduce New Wellness Benefits

Health Plus is excited to partner with Maple to provide new and improved Wellness Benefits for all Health Plus PRIORITY and OPTIMUM plan members. 

Health Plus first included Wellness Benefits in our plans in 2019, for no extra charge to our members. We know Canadians can benefit from resources beyond the scope of traditional healthcare. In particular, we understand the importance of accessible mental healthcare, but too often barriers to treatment exist. 

That's why we're committed to offering innovative solutions to Health Plus plan members to help take better care of their physical and mental health. With Maple, plan members can get immediate access to a licensed primary care provider right from their phone. Wellness benefits also provide free counselling services and resources for a wide range of life and health topics, including stress management, relationships, finances, career growth and navigating workplace issues, and much more. 

Maple virtual healthcare
Maple virtual healthcare

All Health Plus PRIORITY and OPTIMUM plans now include three new services provided by Maple, for no added cost to plan members. 

Maple Virtual Healthcare

Health Plus plan members have unlimited 24/7 access to Canadian-licensed primary care practitioners from anywhere in the world, via text, audio, or video chat. Get a  diagnosis and prescription sent right to the pharmacy of your choice or delivered to you. 

Inkblot Member Assistance Program

The integrated Member Assistance Program (MAP) provides 24/7 access to digital resources for career, health, relationships, financial advice, and more. Members get 5 free hours of personal counselling, couples counselling, career and health coaching. 

Tranquility iCBT

Tranquility's innovative internet-based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (iCBT) program offers plan members digital CBT lessons, practical exercises, and guided support to promote mental wellness. 

Why Maple?

We know finding a doctor is a challenge for many Canadians, particularly in rural or remote areas. And even if you have a family doctor, you may have to wait days, even a week or more for an appointment. Maple can help.

Founded by a physician in 2015, Maple is a leader is virtual healthcare in Canada. Providing Canada's largest online network of doctors, Maple is committed to improving healthcare accessibility with convenient user-friendly online care. Maple's partnership with Inkblot allows members access to three great services under one umbrella, no extra cost, no claims required.

If you have questions about Health Plus coverage or the new Maple services, please reach out. Our team is here to help.

Health Plus members can register online at getmaple.ca/healthplus

healthy travel wellness moment

Wellness Moment: Tips to Stay Healthy While Travelling

Health Plus Wellness Moment

Tips to Stay Healthy While Travelling

Travel can be incredibly restorative. A vacation is a chance to rest, relax, and reset. New experiences can be inspiring and motivating. But travel can also be physically and mentally demanding, especially if you’re not travelling for pleasure. Even on vacation, long days in transit, time changes, unhealthy food, and physically demanding adventures can all take a toll.

Whether you’re preparing for a late summer get-away, fall work travel, or just getting back in the swing of things post-vacation, here are some tips to stay healthy when travelling.

Plan Ahead

Ease the potential stress of travel by planning in advance. This may include booking accommodation, passing off work projects before you go, and researching restaurants and activities. This doesn’t mean you have to eliminate all spontaneity but having some reservations and research to fall back on can prevent unnecessary headaches.

Beat Jetlag

There are countless tips out there on how to limit the effects of jetlag but many are just old wives tales. Jetlag is caused by a disruption in your normal daily rhythm when in a different time zone. The best advice is to start well rested, limit alcohol during travel, stay hydrated, and get on your new schedule right away. A short power nap might help but make sure to sleep at the local nighttime in your destination to reset your body clock.

Drink Lots of Water

Staying hydrated is important, particularly if you’re flying. Airplanes are notoriously dry, with humidity averaging 30% lower than ideal. Coupled with low cabin air pressure, dehydration is very common, leading to dry skin, headaches, and fatigue. Bring a reusable water bottle and some electrolytes, limit alcohol, and aim for 8oz of water for each hour in flight. Depending on where you’re travelling, make sure to check the water quality and purchase bottled water if necessary.

Pack Healthy Snacks

Vacation often means heavy meals out, dessert, take-out, and drinking more alcohol, sweet drinks or coffee than usual. Make sure you have healthy snacks on hand; think fruit, protein or granola bars, and yogurt to help keep you energized and mitigate the effects of a greasier-than-usual diet.

Take Care Post-trip

Give yourself a few days to get back into your regular routine. Even if you’ve just had a week on the beach, it’s not uncommon to suffer from post-vacation fatigue. If you can avoid it, don’t schedule important meetings or appointments in the first few days back. Gradually ease into the swing of things by unpacking, tackling the laundry, and restocking the fridge with healthy food. If you find yourself dreading getting back to work, take a few moments to look at photos from your recent trip or daydream about your next adventure.

Make Sure You're Covered with Travel Insurance

Travel insurance means you can enjoy your trip without worries of unexpected healthcare costs or cancellations. Health Plus PRIORITY and OPTIMUM plans include 60 days of emergency health coverage per trip. If you’re interested in extended travel coverage such as trip cancellation, interruption or lost baggage, get in touch for a quote or fill in the form below. 

Happy Travelling from the Health Plus Team!

Spring Wellness Moment

Spring Wellness Moment: 5 Tips to Take Better Care of Your Mental Health

Wellness Moment

5 Tips to Take Better Care of Your Mental Health This Spring

May is mental health awareness month. The timing is fitting. Spring weather can bring a boost in mood and inspire a refresh of mind and body. But taking care of our mental health is a year-round commitment. If you feel your mental health could use extra focus right at any time, you’re definitely not alone. Millions of Canadians struggle with mental health issues, excess stress and burnout. Here are some tips to kickstart a healthy routine.

Make a Plan

Just like taking care of our physical health it’s best to have a plan for our mental health. This can involve a regular self-care ritual, going to therapy, starting an exercise routine, daily meditation, adding more healthy foods to your diet, setting boundaries to manage stress, and more. Don’t try to tackle too much at once. Instead, focus on one or two areas that you think will have an impact, and start small.

Get Outside

As the temperature rises and the days get longer, there are more opportunities to spend time outside. Just being in nature can relieve stress and improve mood, among other health benefits. The boost of dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin you get from moving your body, whether from a bike ride, hike, or walk around the block, can calm anxiety, and improve concentration and memory.

Prioritize Sleep

In our busy lives we often undervalue the importance of sleep. But consistently getting enough high-quality sleep (7-9 hours per night) improves both physical and mental health outcomes. Poor quality sleep is linked to higher levels of anxiety and depression, difficultly controlling emotions, and reduced attention and problem-solving skills. And while sleep needs vary from person to person, research suggests women may need slightly more sleep on average than men.  

Connect with Others 

Community is a powerful tool in our mental health toolkit. A safe, accepting, and supportive community can include family, friends, neighbours, healthcare providers, and colleagues. All can provide a positive support network and help build resilience. The benefits are doubled when you also practice compassion to those around you.

Do Some Spring Cleaning

Many people use this time of year to refresh their space as well. There is a link between a clean home and improved mental health. Clutter can contribute to stress, negatively impact focus, and increase tension. Cleaning and decluttering can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re struggling with depression or other health issues. Remember to start small. Tackle a single space or task or set a timer for a quick tidy. Even 10 minutes can make a big difference.

Mental Health Resources from Health Plus 

If you’re a Health Plus plan member, login to your Telus Health One account to connect directly with a professional counsellor who can help develop a plan for you. The app also includes hundreds of digital resources you can use on your own. The physical and mental health topics included stress management, nutrition, fitness, nurturing positive relationships, and more.

CSGA health insurance social connection

The Importance of Social Connection

Wellness Moment

The Importance of Social Connection

Human beings are social creatures. We thrive on connections with others. Regular positive social interactions and strong social connections benefit us physically and emotionally and can actually lead to a longer life. But nurturing those connections is easier said than done, particularly with the prevalence of remote work and a full load of personal responsibilities. The cold, grey winter months make it even harder to get ourselves out of the house or out of routine. Here’s why it’s worth the effort.  


The Benefits of Social Connection

Multiple studies have shown that people with strong social bonds are healthier. The effects are significant and wide-ranging, from helping to maintain a healthy body mass index and decrease the effects of depression, to increasing cancer survival rates, not to mention the simple boost to overall mental health by spending time with people we enjoy. A strong social network can help you recover faster from illness or injury and better deal with stress. So, how do we nurture and strengthen these connections to lead a healthier life?

Nurturing Social Connection

THINK COMMUNITY

A hub of social connection, a healthy, safe, and resilient community offers support and inclusion to its members. Participating in a neighbourhood, school, church, hobby or interest group can help you feel connected to others. In turn, your involvement strengthens the community itself. Luckily, there are countless small ways to engage with or give back.

  • Take a class
  • Volunteer with a local organization
  • Participate in  a local park clean up or attend a community meeting
  • Get involved a your kids' school
  • Support a local restaurant or shop
  • Do a favour for a neighbour
BUILD HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS

Meaningful and diverse connections with others are central to our emotional wellbeing. Our ties to friends, family, coworkers, and neighbours give us a sense of belonging, and these social networks can provide emotional and practical support and step in when we need help. Offering help to others boosts our health too. Strengthening relationships is an ongoing process but simple interactions can have a big impact.

  • Be polite and respectful in your interactions
  • Practice active listening
  • Play with your kids; set a date night with your partner
  • Call a family member or friend just to check-in
  • Have a game night or workout date with friends
  • Get coffee with a co-worker
  • Chat with a local business owner
TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF

Building healthy relationships starts with ourselves. The saying ‘you can’t pour from an empty cup’ is a great image to remind us to nurture our own wellness, especially if we’re taking care of others, or need help ourselves to muster the energy to be social. Self-care is crucial, whatever that may look like for you.

  • Set boundaries; ask for help; join a support group
  • Cook a nutritious meal; go for a walk; take regular breaks
  • Get organized in whatever way will help create space for your needs

Take a moment to check in on your wellbeing. The more connected we are with ourselves, the more we gain from and give to our connections with others. 


This Wellness Moment is from Health Plus Insurance. Read our past Wellness Moments. From our family to yourself, take care. If you're a Health Plus plan member remember you have access to free professional Wellness Resources.


business insurance

5 Good Reasons for Freelancers to Have Business Insurance Coverage

5 Good Reasons for Freelancers to Have Business Insurance Coverage (Guest Post)

Freelancers in Canada play a vital role in the national economy. Whether you're a freelance writer, independent consultant, or a solo entrepreneur, you are exposed to various risks in the course of your work. That's why it's crucial for freelancers to seriously consider having business insurance coverage in Canada. In this article, we will explore five compelling reasons why freelancers should consider purchasing business insurance.

1. Protection in Case of Disputes

One of the primary benefits of business insurance for freelancers is protection in case of disputes. If a client is dissatisfied with your work or if a third party suffers harm due to your professional activities, you could potentially face costly legal proceedings. Professional liability insurance can shield you by covering legal fees, settlements, and potential judgments. This allows you to work with peace of mind, knowing you have protection in place for such situations.

2. Financial Security in Case of Illness or Injury

Freelancers in Canada do not have the same benefits when it comes to sick leave or disability benefits as full-time employees. If you fall ill or are involved in an accident that prevents you from working, you could find yourself in a financially challenging situation. Business disability insurance can provide a safety net by disbursing benefits to offset a portion of your lost income in cases of temporary or permanent disability. This can help you maintain your standard of living and meet your financial needs during a difficult period.

3. Protection for Your Business and Equipment

If you use expensive equipment or tools in your freelance work, it's essential to safeguard them. Commercial property insurance can assist in covering the costs of replacing or repairing your equipment in case of theft, accidental damage, or natural disasters. Moreover, if your business heavily relies on your physical presence to generate income, disability insurance tied to loss of income due to illness or injury can help keep your business afloat in the event of your inability to work.

4. Managing Contract-Related Risks

As a freelancer, you may enter into contracts with your clients. These contracts might include liability clauses, delivery deadlines, and other commitments. In case of contract breaches or disputes arising from contractual obligations, you could be exposed to claims from clients. Professional liability insurance can aid in managing these risks by providing financial protection in case of contract-related litigation. This allows you to negotiate contracts with confidence, knowing you have coverage in place in case of issues.

5. Enhancing Credibility and Client Trust

Lastly, having business insurance can enhance your credibility as a freelancer in the eyes of your clients. Clients often seek professionals who take their business seriously and are willing to invest in protective measures. Having business insurance can set you apart from the competition and reassure your clients about your commitment to delivering quality and reliable work. It can also help you establish long-term trust-based relationships with clients, which can be invaluable for the long-term success of your business.

Conclusion

In conclusion, business insurance is a crucial element of risk management for freelancers in Canada. It provides protection in disputes, financial security in case of illness or injury, safeguards your business and equipment, helps manage contract-related risks, and enhances credibility with clients. While it may represent an additional cost, the benefits of business insurance far outweigh the drawbacks. By investing in appropriate insurance coverage, you can protect your business and financial future while strengthening your position in the market as a trustworthy and competent professional. Therefore, it is advisable for all freelancers in Canada to carefully assess their business insurance needs and select coverage that suits their specific circumstances.

Do you need health insurance

Do you need health insurance in Canada?

Do you need health insurance in Canada?

With an increasing number of Canadians starting their own business, working freelance, or entering the ‘gig economy’, many workers do not have health and dental benefits. If you’re one of the millions of Canadians on their own for health insurance, you’ve likely asked yourself, ‘Is private health insurance worth it?’.

While not a requirement, private health insurance is generally a good idea to cover what’s not included in provincial coverage. Private plans can cover both routine expenses and protect you against the impact of large unexpected or ongoing health bills. As insurance advisors, we’ve seen the reality of medical bills, and always recommend a good plan. To come to your own conclusion about health insurance, here are a few questions to ask.

Do you already have coverage?

One of the most common ways to access health insurance is through an employer-sponsored plan, either your own employer or your spouse/partner’s. Enrolment is typically automatic for full-time employees and may be optional for contract workers. If you have a good employee benefit plan, you’re likely set. But, when you work for yourself, you’re responsible for your own benefits. There are a number of ways to source insurance as an individual, including through a broker, an alumni or professional association, or direct from the insurance company. Make sure you have the best value option for you and if you do not already have coverage it’s smart to look into.

To be clear, we’re talking about insurance, not a health spending account (HSA), which is also a common employee benefit. While a great resource to help pay for routine expenses, a health spending account is typically quickly maxed out in the event of a serious incident or high ongoing expenses.

What's covered by provincial health insurance?

The more important question is what’s not covered. Provincial plans vary across the country, but in general they do NOT provide working-age adults with coverage for prescription drugs, healthcare providers such as physiotherapists, chiropractors, or psychologists, vision, or dental care.

Do you need health insurance

How much are you currently spending?

What you spend now on healthcare has a big impact on the insurance plan that is right for you. However, if you have few expenses now, don’t make the big mistake of only considering current spending. If you have no large health expenses, it can be hard to gauge the value of insurance. But the risk of future health issues and the expenses that come with them is very real. Understanding potential future costs should factor into your decision.

Medically underwritten vs. guaranteed acceptance

The insurance that will be right for you is closely related to your current health expenses. If you have an existing chronic or serious health condition and corresponding expenses, a guaranteed acceptance plan is likely your best option. These plans don’t ask medical questions and will pay for existing costs, which makes them a no-brainer for many people. However, if you have no or low health expenses, you will likely want a medically underwritten plan. After filling in a medical questionnaire you will save money on premiums and get better coverage. It’s important to know that these better value plans are typically only available to enrol in when you’re healthy. Learn more about what’s right for you.

What is your risk tolerance?

Insurance is all about managing risk and being prepared for the unexpected. Unfortunately, the risk of developing a chronic health issue or needing other expensive healthcare is very real. 44% of Canadian adults have a chronic health condition, with many specialty medications costing upwards of $10,000 per year. Will you be financially able to pay for large, unexpected health costs out of pocket?

Of course, an emergency fund is always a good idea, but are you comfortable with the risk that it may not cover the bills for necessary healthcare? In contrast, health insurance provides a manageable monthly expense you can budget for.  

If you'd like to get covered check out Health Plus plan options or get in touch to learn more and compare. 


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