Information for MCP Applicants and Beneficiaries
Introduction
The Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Care Plan (MCP) is a publicly administered comprehensive plan of public medical care insurance which was introduced on April 1, 1969. MCP covers the costs of insured physician services for residents of the province who have met eligibility criteria to register as MCP beneficiaries. MCP beneficiaries are also entitled to coverage of insured medical services received in a hospital under the Hospital Insurance Plan (HIP).
MCP and HIP operate in accordance with the Medical Care and Hospital Insurance Act and related legislation and regulations and in compliance with the Canada Health Act.
Beneficiaries must present a valid MCP card when receiving insured services. Make sure to take your card with you when visiting a doctor, hospital, clinic or medical facility. Failure to do so may mean you could be directly billed by the medical provider or possibly denied service.
- MCP Forms
- Eligibility
- General Information
- MCP Registration and Card Renewal
- Medical Care Plan Coverage
- Hospital Insurance Plan
- Transition-Related Coverage
- Out-of-Province Coverage
- Medical Claims History
- Beneficiary Audit
- COVID-19 Health Care Coverage for Uninsured Persons
- MCP Cards and Personal Health Information Statement
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Contact Information
Eligibility
Every person residing in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador must register in order to become and remain a beneficiary of the Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Care Plan (MCP). All applicants must meet eligibility criteria in order to be accepted for registration. The Medical Care Insurance Beneficiaries and Inquiries Regulations and the supporting policies of MCP specify these eligibility requirements. As the administrator of the regulations, MCP has established criteria to ensure that the regulations are applied consistently and fairly in assessing applications. MCP will require documentation to prove eligibility, which must be provided by an applicant when requested.
To be eligible for registration all current MCP beneficiaries and new applicants must reside in the province. The Medical Care and Hospital Insurance Act defines a “resident” as a person “who is lawfully entitled to be or to remain in Canada, makes his or her home in the province, and is ordinarily present in the province but does not include a tourist, transient or visitor to the province.” Anyone who does not ordinarily reside full-time in the province is ineligible for MCP coverage and should register for health care coverage with their province/territory of residence or with another provider if their place of residence is outside Canada.
Some examples of proof of intention to remain in Newfoundland and Labrador are listed below. MCP may ask for copies of these or other items not listed here. Clear copies are accepted although original documents may be requested for viewing if considered necessary. All items must be current and unexpired.
- Letter of employment from a Newfoundland and Labrador employer confirming that employment is for at least one year and the work site is within the province.
- Lease for rental accommodations.
- Mortgage documents.
- Documentation from the Canada Revenue Agency indicating Newfoundland and Labrador as province of residence.
- Passport with a Newfoundland and Labrador address.
- Utility bills (in applicant’s name).
Persons under the following categories are not eligible for MCP registration even if they are temporarily staying in Newfoundland and Labrador for an extended period:
- Residents (and their dependants) of another Canadian province or territory who are staying in the province for less than one year. (They remain covered by the health care plan of the province/territory where they are registered prior to coming to Newfoundland and Labrador).
- Post-secondary students (and their dependants) from other Canadian provinces or territories. (They remain covered under the health care plan of the province/territory where they are registered prior to coming to Newfoundland and Labrador).
- Persons from outside of Canada who do not possess a valid Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) permit.
- Refugee claimants (and dependants).
- International Workers with IRCC Work Permits that do not meet MCP criteria (and dependants).
- International Students with IRCC Student Permits that do not meet MCP criteria (and dependants).
- Tourists, transients and visitors (and dependants).
- Canadian Armed Forces members. (Dependants may be eligible).
- Armed forces personnel of other countries. (Dependants may be eligible).
- Inmates of federal prisons. (Dependants may be eligible).
General Information
There are no fees or charges for MCP registration. Application forms which can be downloaded and saved as fillable PDF documents or printed to enter information by hand are available here. Completed application forms can be submitted by regular mail, fax or deposited at a 24-hour drop-off slot at MCP offices. New MCP registration applications cannot be submitted on-line or by e-mail. Please note, MCP does not cover fees for Immigration Medical Exams that may be required by IRCC for those applying to enter Newfoundland and Labrador from outside Canada.
MCP registration applications must:
- include clear copies of all required valid, unexpired identification and citizenship/immigration documents pertaining to the applicant group under which you are registering
- have all relevant sections of the form fully completed
- be signed where indicated on the form
Failure to submit clear copies of required documents, or to accurately provide all required information and signature, will result in delay or refusal of your MCP registration.
Properly completed applications when submitted with all necessary supporting documents typically have a response time of two weeks. When your registration application is approved a wallet-size plastic MCP card will be mailed to you which will provide your personal health identity number (HIN) and indicate your MCP expiration date. You must present this card to health care providers whenever you receive MCP insured services. Failure to do so may result in you being directly billed by a medical provider or possibly denied service.
MCP registration will be valid for varying periods, up to five years, depending on the applicant group under which you are registered. Your registration may be renewed for an equivalent period if you remain eligible for continuing coverage. There are no fees or charges for MCP card renewal. Coverage will not be renewed, and may be terminated at any time, if registration criteria are not being met, such as not conforming with in-province residency requirements or no longer possessing valid, unexpired Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) permits and other required documentation.
Beneficiaries will be contacted by regular mail, or by e-mail for those who have a MyGovNL account, prior to their expiration date to confirm renewal. Coverage will cease if your registration has not been renewed by the expiration date indicated on your MCP card.
MCP Registration and Card Renewal
All MCP applicants and beneficiaries must be residents of the province of Newfoundland and Labrador. All persons applying for MCP coverage must register under one of the following groups:
- Canadian Citizens
- Permanent Residents
- International Workers
- International Students
- Ukrainians (CUAET and SFRSP)
1. Canadian Citizens
MCP Registration
Canadian Citizens who are registering with MCP as new applicants must complete and submit an Application for Newfoundland and Labrador Health Care Coverage form along with clear copies of documentation to confirm their citizenship status, which must include one of the following:
- Birth certificate issued by a provincial or territorial government in Canada
- Canadian Passport (identification pages only; passport must be UNEXPIRED)
- Canadian Citizenship Certificate (both sides of the document)
The following will also be required, where applicable:
- health care number or copy of health care card from your previous province or territory of residence, for persons relocating from another part of Canada
- proof that Canadian citizenship/permanent residency status has not been forfeited, if returning to Canada after a lengthy stay abroad
- proof of discharge in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador from the Canadian Armed Forces
- proof of release from a federal prison
MCP Registration for Dependants of Canadian Citizens
Dependants of Canadian Citizens may be eligible for MCP coverage (e.g., spouse, children). They must reside in Newfoundland and Labrador at the same address as the primary beneficiary. Dependants who enter Newfoundland and Labrador at the same time as the primary beneficiary should be listed on the beneficiary’s MCP Application for Newfoundland and Labrador Health Care Coverage form. A copy of a marriage certificate, birth certificate or other appropriate document may be requested in order to confirm the relationship of the primary beneficiary and dependant. The length of coverage of a dependant cannot exceed that of the primary beneficiary.
For dependants who are non-Canadians copies of identification page(s) from the dependant’s UNEXPIRED foreign passport and any other required IRCC documents must be submitted with their MCP application. Dependants who are non-Canadians must be prepared at all times to present their original UNEXPIRED foreign passport when requested. Please note, MCP does not cover fees for Immigration Medical Exams that may be required by IRCC for those applying to enter Newfoundland and Labrador from outside Canada.
Effective Period of Coverage for Canadian Citizens
MCP coverage for Canadian Citizens is valid for no more than five years at a time. Coverage must be renewed prior to expiration.
MCP Card Renewal: Canadian Citizens
Canadian Citizens are responsible for ensuring their MCP card is renewed prior to the expiry date printed on their current card. All applicable registration criteria must continue to be met in order for a beneficiary to be eligible to renew their MCP registration. After receiving a new card please destroy the previous card and use the new one immediately.
Renewing your MCP card by mail:
Approximately 60 days before your MCP card expires you will be sent a specific renewal form by regular mail to your home address which will request you to confirm your registration information. Promptly complete and return the form in the enclosed envelope provided. When it is processed MCP will send a new card to you by mail. Failure to return the properly completed form within the specified time may mean loss of health care coverage and require you to reapply as a new applicant.
Renewing your MCP card on-line:
You may be eligible to renew your MCP card on-line if you have a registered account with MyGovNL. Approximately 30 days before your MCP card expires you will receive a notification by e-mail informing you of your upcoming card expiry. Once you confirm your renewal information on-line MCP will send your new card by regular mail once. Once you have renewed on-line you will no longer receive future renewal notices by regular mail. Please note, you can only renew on-line if your MCP card has been linked to your MyGovNL account prior to the MCP card’s expiry. To renew on-line you must:
- be at least 16 years of age
- be a resident of Newfoundland and Labrador for at least one year
- have your MCP card linked to your MyGovNL account
- have an MCP card that will expire within 30 days or has been expired for less than a year
Renewing your child’s MCP card on-line:
Children under the age of 16 cannot register with MyGovNL. They will continue to receive MCP renewal notifications by regular mail as will children under 19 who have not registered with MyGovNL. However, a parent or legal guardian who has a MyGovNL account may renew MCP cards on-line for their children who are under the age of 19. For parents/legal guardians who choose to do this MCP will send the child’s new card by regular mail once the on-line renewal process has been completed. To renew a child’s MCP card on-line:
- you must be the child’s legal guardian or parent
- the child must be under the age of 19
- the child must reside in Newfoundland and Labrador
2. Permanent Residents
MCP Registration
Permanent Residents who are registering with MCP as new applicants must complete and submit an Application for Newfoundland and Labrador Health Care Coverage form, along with a clear copy of one of the following:
- Permanent Resident card (both sides of the card)
- Confirmation of Permanent Residency (COPR) from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
The following will also be required, where applicable:
- a previous province or territory’s health care number or card, for those relocating from another part of Canada
- proof that Permanent Residency status has not been forfeited, if returning to Canada after a lengthy absence abroad
- proof of release from a federal prison
An applicant who presents a Record of Landing document will be asked to provide a Permanent Resident record or Confirmation of Permanent Residency from IRCC. If an applicant in this situation has applied to IRCC for one of these documents but has not yet received it, MCP may issue short-term interim coverage while the applicant awaits their IRCC document, provided they have submitted proof of their application to IRCC.
IRCC Immigration Medical Exams
MCP does not cover fees for Immigration Medical Exams that may be required by IRCC for those applying to enter Newfoundland and Labrador from outside Canada. Further information is available here: IRCC IMMIGRATION MEDICAL EXAMS.
MCP Registration for Dependants of Permanent Residents
Dependants of Permanent Residents may be eligible for MCP coverage (e.g., spouse, children). They must reside in Newfoundland and Labrador at the same address as the primary beneficiary. Dependants who enter Newfoundland and Labrador at the same time as the primary beneficiary should be listed on the beneficiary’s MCP Application for Newfoundland and Labrador Health Care Coverage form. A copy of a marriage certificate, birth certificate or other appropriate document may be requested in order to confirm the relationship of the primary beneficiary and dependant. The length of coverage of a dependant cannot exceed that of the primary beneficiary.
For dependants who are non-Canadians copies of identification page(s) from the dependant’s UNEXPIRED foreign passport and any other required IRCC documents must be submitted with their MCP application. Dependants who are non-Canadians must be prepared at all times to present their original UNEXPIRED foreign passport when requested.
Effective Period of Coverage for Permanent Residents
MCP coverage for Permanent Residents is valid for one year for new applicants and for no more than five years at a time after that. Coverage must be renewed prior to expiration.
MCP Card Renewal: Permanent Residents
Permanent Residents are responsible for ensuring their MCP card is renewed prior to the expiry date printed on their current card. All applicable registration criteria must continue to be met in order for a beneficiary to be eligible to renew their MCP registration. After receiving a new card please destroy the previous card and use the new one immediately.
Approximately 30 days before your MCP card expires you will be sent a specified renewal form by regular mail, sent to your home address, which will request you to confirm your registration information. Promptly complete and return the form in the enclosed envelope provided. When it is processed MCP will send a new card to you by mail. On-line MCP card renewal is not available for Permanent Residents.
Failure to return the properly completed form within the specified time may mean loss of health care coverage and require you to reapply as a new applicant.
3. International Workers
MCP Registration
International Workers must apply for MCP registration as one of the following:
- International Worker (General)
- Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP) Particpant
- Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) Participant
- International Health Care Worker
- International Workers (General) must complete and submit an Application for Newfoundland and Labrador Health Care Coverage form, along with clear copies of:
- Work Permit issued by IRCC which is valid for at least 12 months
- Confirmation Letter from their employer, which must:
- be current and dated within 30 days of submission of the MCP application
- state that the employment is full-time and for at least 12 months, starting from the date of their arrival in the province
- state that the work site is within Newfoundland and Labrador
- be submitted on company letterhead or include a business card of the employer
- be signed by the employer
- Foreign Passport (identification pages only; passport must be UNEXPIRED)
- Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP) participants must complete and submit an Application for Newfoundland and Labrador Health Care Coverage form, along with clear copies of:
- Work Permit issued by IRCC which is valid for at least 6 months
- Confirmation Letter from their employer, which must:
- be current and dated within 30 days of submission of the MCP application
- state that the employment is full-time and for at least 6 months, starting from the date of their arrival in the province
- state that the work site is within Newfoundland and Labrador
- be submitted on company letterhead or include a business card of the employer
- be signed by the employer
- Confirmation Letter from the Office of Immigration and Multiculturalism which must:
- state the applicant is approved under the NLPNP Express Entry Skilled Worker or the NLPNP Skilled Worker categories
- Foreign Passport (identification pages only; passport must be UNEXPIRED)
- Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) participants must complete and submit an Application for Newfoundland and Labrador Health Care Coverage form, along with clear copies of:
- Work Permit issued by IRCC which is valid for at least 6 months
- Confirmation Letter from their employer, which must:
- be current and dated within 30 days of submission of the MCP application
- state that the employment is full-time and for at least 6 months, starting from the date of their arrival in the province
- state that the work site is within Newfoundland and Labrador
- be submitted on company letterhead or include a business card of the employer
- be signed by the employer
- Confirmation Letter from the Office of Immigration and Multiculturalism which must:
- state the applicant is approved under the AIP Atlantic High-Skilled or the AIP Atlantic Intermediate-Skilled categories
- Foreign Passport (identification pages only; passport must be UNEXPIRED)
- International Health Care Workers must complete and submit an Application for Newfoundland and Labrador Health Care Coverage form along with clear copies of:
- Work Permit issued by IRCC
- Confirmation Letter which must:
- be current and dated within 30 days of submission of the MCP application
- be from the Department of Health and Community Services or Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services, confirming full-time employment
- state the start and end dates of employment
- confirm that the work site is within Newfoundland and Labrador
- be submitted on company letterhead or include a business card of the employer
- be signed by the employer
- Foreign Passport (identification pages only; passport must be UNEXPIRED)
IRCC Immigration Medical Exams
MCP does not cover fees for Immigration Medical Exams that may be required by IRCC for those applying to enter Newfoundland and Labrador from outside Canada. Further information is available here: IRCC IMMIGRATION MEDICAL EXAMS.
MCP Registration for Dependants of International Workers
Dependants of International Workers may be eligible for MCP coverage (e.g., spouse, children). They must reside in Newfoundland and Labrador at the same address as the primary beneficiary. Dependants who enter Newfoundland and Labrador at the same time as the primary beneficiary should be listed on the beneficiary’s MCP Application for Newfoundland and Labrador Health Care Coverage form. A copy of a marriage certificate, birth certificate or other appropriate document may be requested in order to confirm the relationship of the primary beneficiary and dependant. The length of coverage of a dependant cannot exceed that of the primary beneficiary.
For dependants who are non-Canadians copies of identification page(s) from the dependant’s UNEXPIRED foreign passport and any other required IRCC documents must be submitted with their MCP application. Dependants who are non-Canadians must be prepared at all times to present their original UNEXPIRED foreign passport when requested.
Effective Period of Coverage for International Workers
MCP coverage for all International Workers is valid for a maximum of one year at a time. Following approval of their application MCP coverage will be effective from the latter date of their arrival in Newfoundland and Labrador and commencement of their full-time employment. Coverage must be renewed prior to expiration.
MCP Card Renewal: International Workers
International Workers are responsible for ensuring their MCP card is renewed prior to the expiry date printed on their current card. All applicable registration criteria must continue to be met in order for a beneficiary to be eligible to renew their MCP registration. After receiving a new card please destroy the previous card and use the new one immediately.
Approximately 30 days before your MCP card expires you will receive a form by regular mail, sent to your home address, advising you (and any dependants) to renew your MCP coverage by submitting a fully completed Card Replacement/Information Update form and clear copies of:
- identification page(s) from an UNEXPIRED Foreign Passport
- current IRCC documents
- confirmation letter from your employer verifying full time employment, which must be current and dated within 30 days of submission of the MCP renewal application
Promptly complete and return the form in the enclosed envelope provided. Once processed, MCP will send a new card to you by mail. Failure to return the properly completed form with all required documentation within the specified time may mean loss of health care coverage and require you to reapply as a new applicant. On-line MCP card renewal is not available for International Workers.
If MCP coverage has expired for more than six months, the International Worker (and dependants) will be required to register for MCP as a new applicant.
International Workers must be prepared at all times to present their original UNEXPIRED foreign passport when requested.
4. International Students
MCP Registration
International Students must complete and submit an Application for Newfoundland and Labrador Health Care Coverage form, along with clear copies of:
- Study Permit issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that is valid for at least 12 months for full-time enrolment in:
- a degree program at Memorial University of Newfoundland, or
- a minimum 365-day diploma program at College of the North Atlantic, or
- a minimum 365-day post-secondary education program at a private training institution that is registered with the Department of Education
- Confirmation Letter from the Newfoundland and Labrador educational institution which:
- is dated within 30 days of submission of the MCP application
- confirms that the student is enrolled full-time
- states that the program is at least one-year in duration
- Foreign Passport (identification pages only; passport must be UNEXPIRED)
IRCC Immigration Medical Exams
MCP does not cover fees for Immigration Medical Exams that may be required by IRCC for those applying to enter Newfoundland and Labrador from outside Canada. Further information is available here: IRCC IMMIGRATION MEDICAL EXAMS.
Residency Requirement/Out-of-Province Travel
International Students must be physically present in Newfoundland and Labrador during a term or semester when classes or training are taking place, including end of term exam periods, with an exception for a credited out-of-province work term that is a required component of a program of study. After a term or semester International Students may retain MCP coverage while temporarily away from the province for vacation or other acceptable purpose. International Students must obtain an Out-of-Province Coverage Certificate prior to leaving the province for more than 30 days.
During their current 365-day MCP registration period at no point may an International Student’s cumulative out-of-province travel exceed the total amount of time the student has been physically present in the province. The total of all out-of-province travel made by an International Student over their current 365-day registration period must not exceed 183 days.
MCP coverage is not available to International Students who study abroad or who study by distance while residing outside the province.
MCP Registration for Dependants of International Students
Dependants of International Students may be eligible for MCP coverage (e.g., spouse, children). They must reside in Newfoundland and Labrador at the same address as the primary beneficiary. Dependants who enter Newfoundland and Labrador at the same time as the primary beneficiary should be listed on the beneficiary’s MCP Application for Newfoundland and Labrador Health Care Coverage form. A copy of a marriage certificate, birth certificate or other appropriate document may be requested in order to confirm the relationship of the primary beneficiary and dependant. The length of coverage of a dependant cannot exceed that of the primary beneficiary.
For dependants who are non-Canadians copies of identification page(s) from the dependant’s UNEXPIRED foreign passport and any other required IRCC documents must be submitted with their MCP application. Dependants who are non-Canadians must be prepared at all times to present their original UNEXPIRED foreign passport when requested.
Effective Period of Coverage for International Students
MCP coverage becomes effective for International Students on the most recent of:
- the date of approval of their MCP application, or
- the date of their arrival in the province, or
- the effective date of all required documents
MCP coverage for International Students is valid for no more than one year at a time. Students who are enrolled in multi-year programs must renew their MCP registration annually. MCP coverage will expire when an International Student ceases residing in the province. Graduating International Students (i.e., those who are completing the last term or semester of their degree or study program) should be aware that their MCP coverage will expire the earlier of:
- the date they leave the province permanently, or
- 90 days after the end of their degree or study program, or
- the expiry date of their IRCC Study Permit
To remain covered following expiration of coverage as an International Student, persons who were registered under the International Student category who remain resident in the province must submit a new Application for Newfoundland and Labrador Health Care Coverage, and must meet the eligibility requirements of an appropriate registration group, such as International Workers.
MCP Card Renewal: International Students
International Students are responsible for ensuring their MCP card is renewed prior to the expiry date printed on their current card. All applicable registration criteria must continue to be met in order for a beneficiary to be eligible to renew their MCP registration. After receiving a new card please destroy the previous card and use the new one immediately.
Approximately 30 days before your MCP card expires you will receive a form by regular mail, sent to your home address, advising you (and any dependants) to renew your MCP coverage by submitting a fully completed Card Replacement/Information Update form and clear copies of:
- identification page(s) from an UNEXPIRED Foreign Passport
- current IRCC documents
- confirmation letter from your Newfoundland and Labrador educational institution verifying enrollment in full-time studies, dated within 30 days of submission of your MCP renewal application
On-line MCP card renewal is not available for International Students. Failure to return the properly completed form with all required documentation within the specified time may mean loss of health care coverage and you may be required to reapply as a new applicant.
If there is a gap between the expiration of coverage and the start of a new semester MCP will request a copy of the student’s transcript to ensure coverage can be maintained. If MCP coverage has been expired or if there is a gap in the student’s studies for more than six months the International Student (and dependants) will be required to register with MCP as a new applicant.
International Students must be prepared at all times to present their original UNEXPIRED foreign passport when requested.
5. Ukrainians (CUAET and SFRSP)
MCP Registration
Ukrainians coming to Newfoundland and Labrador under the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) or Special Family Reunification Sponsorship Pathway (SFRSP) must complete and submit an Application for Newfoundland and Labrador Health Care Coverage form, along with clear copies of:
- Valid Visa issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) under CUAET or SFRSP
- Foreign Passport (identification pages only; passport must be UNEXPIRED)
IRCC Immigration Medical Exams
MCP does not cover fees for Immigration Medical Exams that may be required by IRCC for those applying to enter Newfoundland and Labrador from outside Canada. Further information is available here IRCC IMMIGRATION MEDICAL EXAMS.
MCP Registration for Dependants of Ukrainians (CUAET and SFRSP)
Dependants of Ukrainians may be eligible for MCP coverage (e.g., spouse, children). They must reside in Newfoundland and Labrador at the same address as the primary beneficiary. Dependants who enter Newfoundland and Labrador at the same time as the primary beneficiary should be listed on the beneficiary’s MCP Application for Newfoundland and Labrador Health Care Coverage form. A copy of a marriage certificate, birth certificate or other appropriate document may be requested in order to confirm the relationship of the primary beneficiary and dependant. The length of coverage of a dependant cannot exceed that of the primary beneficiary.
For dependants who are non-Canadians copies of identification page(s) from the dependant’s UNEXPIRED foreign passport and any other required IRCC documents must be submitted with their MCP application. Dependants who are non-Canadians must be prepared at all times to present their original UNEXPIRED foreign passport when requested.
Effective Period of Coverage for Ukrainians (CUAET and SFRSP)
MCP coverage for Ukrainians under the CUAET and SFRSP programs will be valid for the duration of their IRCC visa provided they remain a resident of Newfoundland and Labrador. Coverage will be for no more than six months at a time and must be renewed every six months.
MCP Card Renewal: Ukrainians (CUAET and SFRSP)
Ukrainians (CUAET and SFRSP) are responsible for ensuring their MCP card is renewed prior to the expiry date printed on their current card. All applicable registration criteria must continue to be met in order for a beneficiary to be eligible to renew their MCP registration. After receiving a new card please destroy the previous card and use the new one immediately.
Approximately 30 days before your MCP card expires you will receive a form by regular mail sent to your home address advising you (and any dependants) to renew your MCP coverage by submitting a fully completed Card Replacement/Information Update form and clear copies of:
- identification page(s) from an UNEXPIRED Foreign Passport
- current IRCC documents
Failure to return the properly completed form within the specified time may mean loss of health care coverage and require you to reapply as a new applicant. On-line MCP card renewal is not available for Ukrainians under CUAET and SFRSP.
If MCP coverage is expired for more than six months, a Ukrainian under CUAET and SFRSP (and dependants) will be required to register with MCP as a new applicant.
Ukrainians who are registered with MCP under CUAET or SFRSP must be prepared at all times to present a copy of their original UNEXPIRED foreign passport when requested.
Newborns
Following the birth of a child in the province a Newborn /Adopted Child Registration application form must be completed and submitted to MCP along with a copy of the child’s Birth Certificate. An application form will be presented to the parent(s) shortly after the child is born along with their other hospital documents. A valid MCP number of a parent will be requested to ensure that the child will be registered for the duration of a parent’s coverage.
If neither parent is a valid MCP beneficiary the child may be registered temporarily. Health care coverage for the child will only be valid while the child is physically present in the province. No out-of-province coverage will be provided and coverage will immediately cease when the child leaves the province.
Adopted Children
To register an adopted child with MCP the Newborn /Adopted Child Registration application form must be completed and submitted along with a copy of the official adoption documents or a Notice of Adoption Placement from the Department of Children, Seniors and Social Development. A copy of the child’s birth certificate may be requested. If the child was born in Canada but outside of Newfoundland and Labrador coverage begins on the date the child arrives in the province.
Applications for MCP registration of a child adopted from outside of Canada will require valid documentation from IRCC for the child. Coverage will begin on the latter of the effective date of the child’s IRCC documentation or the date of the child’s arrival in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Dependants of Ineligible Applicants
In certain cases dependants of ineligible applicants (as listed in the Eligibility section, above) may be accepted for MCP coverage. An MCP Application for Newfoundland and Labrador Health Care Coverage form should be submitted separately for a dependant spouse. All children should be listed on the spouse’s application form.
Dependant(s) must reside in the province with the ineligible applicant upon whom they are dependant. Their length of coverage will be determined upon assessment of their application but will be for no more than one year at a time and it will not exceed the length of time that the individual upon whom they are dependant is expected to reside in the province. A copy of a marriage certificate, birth certificate or other acceptable documentation may be required in order to confirm the relationship of a dependant.
For dependants who are non-Canadians clear copies of identification page(s) from the dependant’s UNEXPIRED foreign passport and any other required IRCC documents must be submitted with their MCP application.
Dependants who are non-Canadians must be prepared at all times to present their original UNEXPIRED foreign passport when requested.
Delayed Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) Documents
If you are an International Worker, International Student or other beneficiary who is waiting for updated IRCC documents for your MCP card renewal MCP may accept your Card Replacement/Information Update form and provide interim coverage if clear copies of all of the following items (as necessary) are submitted with all other required documents and information:
- official receipt from IRCC of payment of your application fee for your permit to extend your stay in Canada, which includes the date the extension was applied for and the amount of fees paid
- confirmation letter from IRCC stating it has received your application, which must indicate the date the application was received by IRCC
- identification page(s) from your UNEXPIRED foreign passport
Please note that this applies only to MCP card renewal applications. New MCP registration applications will continue to require copies of issued IRCC documents.
MCP On-line Services
Registered MCP beneficiaries, if eligible, may access their MCP registration through MyGovNL. By creating an account, you will receive MCP renewal reminders by email. You can then renew your MCP card and your children’s MCP card on-line and indicate your intention to register as an organ/tissue donor. Please note that at this time, MCP on-line services are only available for persons who are at least 16 year old and registered with MCP as Canadian Citizens. MCP on-line services are not available for Permanent Residents or persons who are registered for MCP under IRCC Work, Study or Visitor permits.
MCP Card Replacement
If you need to replace a card at any time, for example, due to a change of name or address or if you have lost a card and require a new one, please submit an MCP Card Replacement/Information Update form. Please notify MCP as soon as possible of a change of name, address or other registration information.
Medical Care Plan Coverage
MCP Insured Services
The Medical Care Insurance Insured Services Regulations outline the general categories of medical services covered under the Medical Care Plan, which include:
- visits to a physician’s office, hospital or beneficiary’s residence
- surgical, diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, including anesthesia
- pre and post-operative care
- complete maternity care
- radiology interpretive services
- certain surgical-dental procedures which are medically necessary to be performed in hospital by a dentist or oral surgeon
Services Not Insured
The Medical Care Insurance Insured Services Regulations also list items that are not insured under the Medical Care Plan. These include:
- drugs and vaccines
- provision of medical appliances
- writing of prescriptions
- preparation of records, reports or certificates
- services available under other provincial or federal legislation
- physician’s travel time and expenses
- ambulance services or other transportation
- acupuncture and subsequent related services
- non-medically necessary examinations or examinations required by third parties (e.g. annual check-up, employment, pre-school or drivers’ medicals, etc.)
- surgery for cosmetic purposes
- physician’s testimony given in a court
- eye examinations for corrective lenses
- routine, in-hospital, dental extractions
- the difference between general practice and specialist rates for non-referred patients
- services provided by chiropractors, optometrists, podiatrists, naturopaths, osteopaths, physiotherapists, nurses or other paramedical personnel
- newborn circumcisions
- hypnotherapy
- consultations required due to hospital policy
- alcohol/drug dependency treatment outside Canada
- services provided in private non-approved Canadian diagnostic imaging facilities (e.g. MRI, CT, X-ray, etc.)
- therapeutic abortions performed outside Canada, or at a non-approved Canadian facility
- in-vitro fertilization and ovarian stimulation and sperm transfer
- reversal of a previous sterilization procedure
- fees for Immigration Medical Exams that may be required by IRCC for those applying to enter Newfoundland and Labrador from outside Canada
Note:
These are not to be considered comprehensive lists of MCP insured and uninsured services. Specific services covered under the Medical Care Plan are listed in the Medical Care Plan (MCP) Medical Payment Schedule which can be accessed here. Please contact MCP for any inquiries concerning whether or not a health care service or treatment is insured by MCP.
Also note that assistance with certain MCP uninsured services (e.g., prescription drugs, medical transportation, medical equipment, oxygen, dental care) may be provided to eligible persons under various programs administered by the Department of Health and Community Services, other government departments and Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services. Further information regarding health care services provided by the Department that are not insured by MCP can be accessed from our home page. Please consult web sites of other departments and agencies for information on health care services they provide.
Hospital Insurance Plan
All beneficiaries of the Medical Care Plan are entitled to coverage under the Hospital Insurance Plan (HIP). HIP covers the cost of insured in-patient and out-patient services received in a hospital as defined under the Medical Care and Hospital Insurance Act. When receiving services under HIP you will be requested to present your MCP card. Further information regarding HIP is available here: HOSPITAL INSURANCE PLAN.
Transition-Related Coverage
Information regarding transition-related MCP coverage can be found here: TRANSITION-RELATED COVERAGE.
Out-of-Province Coverage
If you are leaving the province for more than 30 days an Out-of-Province Coverage Certificate should be obtained in order to ensure that your MCP coverage will not expire.
For eligible beneficiaries who are temporarily away from Newfoundland and Labrador for extended periods (e.g., work or vacation) coverage may be available for services received out-of-province that are insured under the Medical Care Plan and the Hospital Insurance Plan. Coverage may also be provided for MCP insured services that are unavailable in the province. In cases where service is received out of the country, or where a provider in Canada directly bills the patient, an Out-of-Province claim form must be submitted.
MCP beneficiaries should note that the costs of health care services obtained outside Newfoundland and Labrador can be very expensive and may not even be partially insured by MCP. Prior to leaving the province for any length of time travelers are strongly advised to obtain additional insurance from a private insurer to cover health care costs that are not insured by MCP.
Beneficiaries should also ensure that their private insurance includes medical transportation as MCP will not cover medevac or ground and air ambulance. Even within Canada, these services will most likely not be provided for free by the jurisdiction in which you are traveling. In certain circumstances assistance may be available under the province’s Medical Transportation Assistance Program but even that will not cover the full cost which, for medevac and air ambulance, can quite easily reach several thousand dollars.
Further information can be found at the following links:
OUT-OF-PROVINCE COVERAGE
HOSPITAL INSURANCE PLAN
Medical Claims History
Under the MCP Release of Information Program a beneficiary can acquire a listing of their medical claims history information for purposes such as insurance, legal proceedings or income tax. Further information can be found here: MEDICAL CLAIMS HISTORY.
Beneficiary Audit
Where MCP considers that a beneficiary is making unnecessary use of insured services or in any way abusing public medical care insurance a Utilization Audit may be conducted into their MCP claims history to determine the nature and the cost of any potential instance of misuse. Each suspected incident will be evaluated with consideration of the circumstances under which it has occurred and the beneficiary’s medical history. For instance, a chronically ill beneficiary who legitimately requires frequent and ongoing services would not likely be audited.
The Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Care and Hospital Insurance Act allows MCP to assess a beneficiary for misuse of services and to recover the cost of those services through court action. MCP may also require a beneficiary to enter into a contract to restrict a beneficiary to receiving services from a particular physician if necessary. If it is considered that a physician may be encouraging a beneficiary to over-utilize the Medical Care Plan an audit into that physician’s practice may be conducted.
COVID-19 Health Care Coverage for Uninsured Persons
The Department of Health and Community Services will cover costs of COVID-19 medical services for individuals physically present in Newfoundland and Labrador who are not MCP beneficiaries and have no health care coverage from another public health care agency or private insurance provider.
This coverage includes screening and treatment of any COVID-19 related symptoms or conditions and hospitalization. This measure is intended to ensure no one will be discouraged from seeking screening or treatment for COVID-19 for financial or other reasons and to help contain the spread of the virus.
Please note that if you are in Newfoundland and Labrador and you test positive for COVID-19 or exhibit symptoms which delays you from leaving the province MCP will not cover accommodation or other costs that you may incur due to the delay.
MCP Cards and Personal Health Information Statement
MCP cards issued to beneficiaries remain the property of the Department of Health and Community Services. MCP reserves the right to retain copies of all required registration documentation. Any personal health information is collected, used, disclosed and safeguarded in accordance with the Personal Health Information Act.
The Department of Health and Community Services privacy statement can be found here: PERSONAL HEALTH INFORMATION STATEMENT. If you have any questions about the collection or use of personal health information please contact MCP.
MCP Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Responses to frequently asked questions regarding the Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Care Plan (MCP) can be found here: FAQ.
Contact Information
MCP Administration offices are located in St. John’s and Grand Falls-Windsor. Walk-in clients are not accepted at either office.
24-hour mail drop slots are available at both locations.
- Residents of the Avalon region:
MCP, 45 Major’s Path
PO Box 8700
St. John’s, NL A1B 4J6
Phone: 709-758-1600
Facsimile: 709-758-1694
- Residents of all other areas, including Labrador:
MCP, 22 High Street
PO Box 5000
Grand Falls-Windsor, NL A2A 2Y4
Phone: 709-292-4000
Facsimile: 709-292-4052
- Residents of any region of the province:
Phone (toll-free): 1-866-449-4459 or 1-800-563-1557
E-mail: mcpregistration@gov.nl.ca
Please note: The content on this page may not be current or comprehensive and is subject to change without notice.