Since the beginning of COVID-19 measures in early 2020, in-person healthcare services have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. VAC has made temporary changes to our Treatment Benefits program to ensure you receive the treatment and services you need. Please read through our questions and answers below for more information.
Questions and answers
Treatment benefits during the COVID-19 pandemic
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I have been unable to attend in-person therapy sessions during this time. Can I have additional sessions?
If your therapy sessions have been cancelled due to COVID-19, your unused sessions will still be available to you when you are able to visit your health professional again. If you require additional sessions to support your health, please call 1-866-522-2122.
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During the COVID-19 pandemic, can I qualify for tele-health services to replace my in-person services?
VAC will accept telehealth and virtual health services as an alternative to in-person services. To qualify for coverage during this period, these services must be recommended by your health professional and be considered within scope of practice by professional associations and governing bodies. To see if your tele-health or virtual services are covered, please call 1-866-522-2122.
Please note - Massage therapy services are not eligible to be provided using telehealth/virtual health methods.
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I am unable to see my health professional to renew a prescription for my treatment benefits. Is there anything in place to help me?
For services other than prescription drugs, such as physiotherapy or counselling, you do not need to renew your prescription during this time. The renewal of prescription drugs falls under the direction of provincial health authorities. If you need to renew your prescription drugs, please contact your health professional.
Personal protective equipment
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I need personal protective equipment to attend my health appointments. Will VAC pay for this?
Yes, you may be covered if you need to wear personal protective equipment such as non-medical masks and/or gloves to receive treatment. For more information, please call 1-866-522-2122.
Additionally, if you need an escort to attend your appointment with you or if you have a family member attending VAC authorized treatment, their personal protective equipment will also be covered.
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Where can I find personal protective equipment?
Health professionals may have personal protective equipment free or available for purchase at their offices. You can check with your health professional if personal protective equipment will be supplied at your appointment or if you must bring your own.
You can also reach out to medical supply companies such as pharmacies to buy personal protective equipment. We recommend you call ahead to see if they have any in stock.
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What type of personal protective equipment is covered?
We will reimburse personal protective equipment including non-medical masks, sanitizer, and/or gloves. If your health professional requires you wear other personal protective equipment, please call 1-866-522-2122.
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How do I get reimbursed for personal protective equipment?
You can use your VAC Health Identification Card to purchase personal protective equipment. You can use this card with VAC registered health care providers such as your local pharmacy or treating health professional. They will bill VAC directly so you do not need to pay out of pocket.
If you are unable to use your VAC Health Identification Card, please complete a VAC 918 Client Reimbursement Claim Form and submit to Medavie Blue Cross by mail to:
National Reimbursement Centre
PO Box 6700
Moncton, NB E1C 0T8You will need to submit your proof of payment (original receipt or invoice) that shows:
- the date you received the benefit or service;
- the name of the benefit or service;
- the amount you paid; and,
- the name and address of the provider.