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Part IX: Health Benefits

OPG, through its claims services provider, shall provide extended health benefits and dental coverage as outlined in the pamphlet entitled "Health & Dental Benefits for Performance Paid Employees, Eligible Dependents and Pensioners", dated April 1, 1999, and in accordance with the existing insurance carrier contract for Society-represented staff.

46 EXTENDED HEALTH BENEFITS (EHB)
Effective January 1, 2001 the following applies:
  • Where possible the drug card must be used for all drugs purchased. Paper claims for drugs not purchased through the drug card will be accepted on two months per year (October and April).
  • Self-Testing Devices (Blood Pressure Kits) may be purchased once every three (3) calendar years.
  • There is full coverage for Breathe Easy Strips.
  • CPAP Machine and associated equipment including headgear, mask, hose and filters are covered
  • Viagra is covered with a yearly maximum of $500.00 per person.
  • Laser Eye Surgery to a lifetime maximum of $3000.00 per person.
  • Coverage for Chiropractic services is increased from $500 to $600 per year.
  • Increased coverage for Chronic Care from $30 per day to $40 per day.
  • Increased coverage for Convalescent/Rehab to 365 days per lifetime.
  • TMJ Devices are covered at 85%. After a period of 5 years from the initial date of purchase , on the written recommendation of the attending physician and with the provision of any required supporting evidence, the $1300 maximum may be reinstated
  • Increased coverage for Paramedical Services from $500 per year to $1500 per year
  • Coverage for Shiatsu Therapy when provided by a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) or a Certified Shiatsu Therapist.
  • Private Duty Nursing covered provided it is ordered by the attending physician and only to the extent the patient's medical needs for registered nursing cannot be provided through the Community Care Access Centre (CCAC)
  • Increased coverage for Registered Clinical Psychologist from $2000 annually to $4000 annually.
  • Coverage for Over-The-Counter Vitamins and Minerals is deleted
  • Coverage for food supplements, when prescribed by a physician may be for either Boost or Ensure.
  • Coverage for either Synvisc or Orthovisc (but not both).
The parties agree to revise the Health and Dental Benefits for Performance Paid Employees, Eligible Dependants and Pensioners, dated April 1, 1999 brochure as per a sample provided during 2000 negotiations.
Effective March 22, 2004, the following applies:
  • Vaccinations (on condition that Doctor's fees are not included - coverage only for the vaccine).
  • Chiropractic (Increase from $600 annually to $650 annually).
Effective January 1, 2005, the following applies:
  • Increase eyeglass coverage from $400 to $500 every two (2) years
  • Increase orthotics coverage from $375 to $450 every three (3) years
46.2 OPG agrees to offer employees the option of using the Preferred Vision Services (PVS) Plan, subject to its availability.
46.3 OPG agrees to investigate using its purchasing power to negotiate a discounted group rate for employees who wish to purchase out of country travel insurance.

47 DENTAL PLAN
Effective January 1, 2001 the following applies:
  • Coverage for Class B Services (excluding orthodontics) - increased from 75% to 85% coverage.
  • Dental Predetermination is now valid for 6 months instead of 12 months
  • Effective January 1, 2001 there must have been a 9 month period since the date of the last Recall appointment. This does not change entitlement to the units available for scaling and polishing.
Effective January 1st of each year of the Collective Agreement, the dentist fees will be paid up to the amounts shown in the current Ontario Dental Association (ODA) Fee Guide.
Effective March 22, 2004, the following applies:
  • Porcelain Onlays maximum one onlay or crown per 5 year period for same tooth (i.e. no repair or replacement within 5 year period).
Effective January 1, 2005, the following applies:
  • Increase orthodontic coverage $4,000 to $5,000 lifetime cap
48 SEMI-PRIVATE HOSPITAL ACCOMMODATION PLAN
Coverage under the Semi-Private Hospital Accommodation Plan is unchanged.