On July 1, 2023, federal public sector employees were plunged into yet another crisis, as the Public Service Health Care Plan transferred to a new administrator – Canada Life – that was woefully unprepared to meet its obligations.
Since the changeover, federal employees have faced unending delays, loss of coverage and denial of claims. For many this caused unnecessary stress, mental and financial hardship, and real health concerns as they were no longer able to access what had previously been standard care.
CAPE has continued to push the government to find solutions. In January 2024, CAPE submitted a brief to the Standing Committee on Government Operation and Estimates for its investigation into the changeover, with six recommendations, including that federal employees who have suffered financial loss be fully compensated.
The committee delivered its report in June 2024 and adopted CAPE’s recommendation to fully compensate impacted employees.
CAPE will continue to advocate on behalf of its members to ensure that everyone has access to health care coverage in accordance with their contractual agreement.
Updates
- December 19, 2023 – Help put pressure to resolve the Canada Life fiasco – write to your MP
- July 24, 2023 – CAPE urges Treasury Board to remedy unreasonable delays with Canada Life transition as members suffer from poor to no services
Resources
- June 3, 2024 - Changeover of the Public Service Health Care Plan from Sun Life to Canada Life: Report of the Standing Committee on Government Operations and Estimates
- January 29, 2024 – The Canada Life fiasco: CAPE brief to the Standing Committee on Government Operation and Estimates
