Nunavut bumps up medical travel benefits for patients with extra needs

Starting July 1, the Government of Nunavut has increased coverage under the territory’s extended health benefit plan for accommodation and meals for patients travelling for medical care. (FILE PHOTO)

Nunavummiut can now look forward to increased coverage for costs associated with medical travel.

Starting July 1, the Government of Nunavut has increased coverage under the territory’s extended health benefit plan for accommodation and meals for patients travelling for medical care, the health department said July 30.

Nunavut’s Extended Health Benefits are available to Nunavimmiut who require additional health care that is not covered by the Nunavut Health Care Plan or third-party benefits plans.

The new coverage is designed to reflect the rising cost of living.

Patients covered under the plan for short-term stays away from home are now entitled to a $50 nightly allowance for private accommodation and up to $125 a day for commercial lodgings.

Patients and their escorts are also eligible for meal allowances of $50 a day.

You can see the new policy here.

Nunavut can find out more about the GN’s Extended Health Benefits here.