FAQ

1. Do I need to be a Manitoba resident to apply for these plans?

You must be a Manitoba resident, registered with and entitled to benefits from Manitoba Health to apply for the plans.

2. When do benefits become effective?

Dependent upon the plan, your benefits will become effective the first of the month following a 3 month waiting period. For the Basic Blue, Medi-Blue and Medi-Blue Deluxe plans, there is a three month unpaid waiting period. For the Plus Plan, Plus Plan Deluxe and GenX plans, there is a three month paid waiting period.

3. What do I need to provide if I am losing my coverage from another plan?(When should I apply?)

If you have coverage through another plan, we ask that you send us a letter from the other carrier listing family members on the plan, the coverage and when the plan ends. If the other coverage was through Manitoba Blue Cross, no letter is required, however, we will ask for your contract number. We can waive the waiting period, providing you have similar coverage and you apply within 60 days of losing the other coverage.

4. For my family to be eligible, do I have to list everyone on the application?

If you choose family coverage, all families members to be covered must be listed on the application.

5. Can I change my coverage?

If you wish to upgrade your plan, the change becomes effective in accordance with the enrollment rules for the product chosen. If you downgrade your plan, the change will become effective on the first of the month following the date notification is received.

6. How do I cancel my coverage?

You can cancel over the phone, send a letter or in person at our office. Your coverage will be cancelled on the last day of the month following 30 days from the date notification is received.

7. Can I reapply if I want to?

Unless you are cancelling due to obtaining other coverage, you will not be able to re-enroll in the same plan for two years from the date of cancellation.

8. If I pay up front for my claim, can my payment be deposited directly into my bank account?

You can apply to have your claim payments deposited directly into your bank account. You can do this by registering for Customer E-Service and signing up for Direct Deposit.

9. When can I add dependents or spouse to my plan?

If you report the change within 30 days of the person becoming eligible, the change will take place the day they became eligible.

10. Do you accept credit cards for payment?

At this time, credit cards are not accepted.

11. Can I see my claims online?

Once you have registered for Customer E-Service, you will have access to your current claims history. Through this electronic service, you can gain quick access to your plan information, and benefit details.

12. What is Blue Advantage?

Blue Advantage helps Blue Cross members take advantage of cost savings on medical, vision and healthcare purchases offered by participating providers across Canada. Simply present your Blue Cross identification card to the provider to receive the savings!