Uninsured services advisory

As you may be aware, the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) pays for all services it considers to be medically necessary. Unfortunately, it does not pay for some services. Examples include telephone or fax prescription repeats, sick notes, transfer of records, copying records, missed appointments, removal of cosmetic skin lesions, and most forms. In addition, appointments that are made exclusively for form completion are not covered. As we are not allowed to bill OHIP for these services, the patient is responsible for paying for them.

Some tips to avoid being charged:

1. If you are unable to make an appointment, please cancel it at least 24 hours in advance. Appointments missed or cancelled without 24 hours notification can be subject to a $40 -$60 charge depending on the type of appointment missed.
2. Ensure you get enough prescription repeats at the time of your appointment to last until your next visit. When you get a new prescription filled, check the pill bottles to ensure the pharmacist has accurately recorded the number of refills. You can book a telephone or virtual appointment to renew your medications and avoid having to come in to the office for this visit. However, if you have the pharmacy fax a repeat to our office, it is a cost of $20 each time you have a refill faxed to our office.
3. Check with your employer to verify if you really need a sick note. Frequently it is not required.
4. Requisitions for blood work can be emailed (if you have provided email consent) or picked up in person.
5. To access your lab and other test results, you can sign up for MyChart at mychart.ca. We charge for printed copies.

A full list of uninsured services and associated costs is available in our office. We charge the rates recommended by the Ontario Medical Association. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.