If you’re just arriving in Alberta or coming back, it’s important to get your Alberta Health Card. This card gives you access to healthcare services that insurance covers. The Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) needs everyone eligible to sign up for their own health card. This official ID from the government lets you use different medical services like going to the hospital, seeing a doctor, getting some dental care, and having some coverage for podiatrists and optometrists.
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Securing Your Alberta Health Card
To access healthcare services, it is crucial to keep your Alberta health care card and photo ID with you at all times. Failing to present your card when seeking medical attention may result in charges for the service.
Requesting a Replacement Card
In case your Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) personal health care card is lost or damaged, you can obtain a replacement card through various channels:
Telephone: You can call 780-427-1432 on weekdays between 8:15 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. (excluding weekends and statutory holidays). Alternatively, you can use the toll-free number 310-0000, followed by 780-427-1432.
In-Person: Visit any of the province’s participating registry agent office locations to update your information and apply for coverage under the AHCIP, free of charge.
Mail: Send a written replacement request to Alberta Health, Attention: Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan, P.O. Box 1360, Station Main, Edmonton, AB T5J 2N3.
Email and Fax: For general inquiries, send an email to health.ahcipmail@gov.ab.ca. Note that it is advisable not to transmit forms and sensitive information via email. You can also fax documents to 780-422-0102 (Edmonton).
Documentation Requirements
When applying for AHCIP coverage, you must submit supporting documentation to verify your identification, Alberta residency, and legal right to enter and remain in Canada. Failure to provide these documents may lead to a delay in processing your application. Additionally, you may be asked to furnish additional documents, if necessary, to confirm your eligibility for the health card.
Exemptions from Application
Students: Students from other Canadian provinces or territories studying at an accredited educational institution in Alberta, who plan to return home after graduation, should maintain coverage under their home province’s health insurance policy.
Dependent Children: Dependent children under 21 or 25 years old enrolled full-time at an approved educational institution may remain covered under their parent’s or legal guardian’s plan while in Alberta.
FAQs
Who is exempt from applying for an Alberta Health Card?
Students from other Canadian provinces or territories studying at an accredited educational institution in Alberta, who plan to return home after graduation, should maintain coverage under their home province’s health insurance policy.
How can I request a replacement Alberta Health Card?
You can request a replacement card through various channels, including telephone, in-person visit, mail, email, and fax.
What documents are required for AHCIP coverage?
Supporting documentation to verify identification, Alberta residency, and legal right to enter and remain in Canada are required for AHCIP coverage.