Bar code
As of January 11, 2010, the Health Insurance Cards being delivered have a bar code. They are being issued for new registrations and renewals. In a few years, all cards will display a bar code.
Bar code contents
The bar code appearing on the card contains a single item of information: the holder's Health Insurance Number. It contains no information concerning the person's medical record or any other health-related information.
Why has a bar code been added?
The Card, which is key to accessing health services, was introduced in the early 70s and has been improved in various ways over the years.
The bar code is the means chosen by the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec to adapt the Card to today's realities.
Bar code usefulness
The usefulness of the bar code will become increasingly apparent over the coming months and years. Gradually, the reception personnel in the facilities of the health network and clinics will be able to scan the bar code on the card. This will display the holder's Health Insurance Number directly on screen, eliminating the need to enter it manually. In this way, the healthcare personnel will be able to check, with the online service provided by RAMQ, whether a person is entitled to the free healthcare services available under the Health Insurance Plan.
Who can receive covered healthcare services free of charge?
Persons registered for the Health Insurance Plan must meet two conditions:
- have on hand a Health Insurance Card that has not expired (the card is valid until the last day of the month appearing on the card);
- be present in Québec for more than half the year, as a general rule. Persons who are not present in Québec for a sufficient length of time could lose their coverage for a given period.
It is very important that you not wait until your card has expired before renewing it. Also, before leaving Québec, inform yourself to avoid losing your eligibility.
