Interim Federal Health Program

The Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) provides temporary health care coverage to protected people in Canada (mainly resettled refugees and refugee claimants). This plan is administered by the Medavie Blue Cross and thus physicians providing care to patients who only have IFHP coverage have to register with them.

Depending on the protected person’s category, different types of health coverage are available under the IFHP. Additional provincial coverage is also available depending on the province. The 3 main types of health care coverage under the IFHP are summarized here:

  • Basic Coverage

Similar to regular provincial plans (in-patient and out-patient services provided by doctors and nurses, laboratory and diagnostic tests, ambulance services).​​

  • Supplemental Coverage

Similar to social assistance provincial coverage (dental and vision care, home care, psychology, occupational therapy, physiotherapy, hearing aids and other medical equipment).

  • Prescription Drug Coverage

Coverage for medications listed on provincial formularies. Special medications specific to refugee patients, such as antihelminthics, are also covered under the IFHP.

>> For more information on the Interim Federal Health Program, refer to the following links: