FAQs

What’s the difference between group insurance and individual insurance?
RTOERO's plans are group insurance — if you have health insurance through your employer, it's group insurance as well. Group health plans are for larger groups, which reduces the risk by spreading it across a wide number of plan participants. Individual insurance products are purchased directly from an insurance company. Learn more about the difference between group and individual insurance and how RTOERO's coverage is unique.  
Why do I need additional insurance on top of the government plan?
Some people consider entering retirement without purchasing additional medical insurance. This is a risk — unexpected events can be costly. Here’s an example of additional expenses that aren’t generally covered by government plans:
  • Many common prescription drugs used by seniors – government programs cover only about half of all prescription medications
  • paramedical practitioners like registered massage therapists, chiropractors, naturopaths, dieticians, social workers, psychologists and more
  • mobility aids like walkers and wheelchairs
  • eyeglasses and contact lenses, laser eye surgery
  • dental services
  • travel benefits
Why do you offer only one option in your insurance plans?
The benefits included in our plans are based on what our members have needed at all stages of retirement. We’ve learned that it’s hard for individuals to predict what they might need when they’re making insurance decisions as they’re retiring. That’s why we use data and member input to design plans that provide the best value to our members throughout their retirement journey.
How do you decide what to include in the insurance plans?
Input from members and usage data are used to made decisions about what to include in our plans. For example, the prescription drug maximum is based on historical data of what members have actually used. Our plans are completely customized to the needs of our members.
How can I provide feedback on what’s included in the plans?
We gather feedback from all members through regular surveys. 90 per cent give top ratings to our health plans.
What happens if I don’t pay my fees on time?
The best way to avoid missing fee payments is to set up automatic withdrawals from your bank account. If you ever do miss a payment, we will contact you before doing anything with your insurance.
Why do I need to be a member to get insurance?
We offer our non-profit group insurance as a service for our members. The size and stability of our membership base lets us negotiate additional discounts and privileges for our members. We have a number of members who don’t yet need insurance, but who join for the other benefits we offer. You can become a member at the same time as completing your insurance application—it’s a one-step process.
Can my membership dues be included with my insurance premium payments?
The membership fee is waived for all participants of the Entente Group Insurance Program - so you will not be charged a membership fee.
I retired more than 60 days ago, and my insurance through work has ended. Can I still be covered?
Yes! We have a late application process you can follow.
How do I request a new benefits card?
If you lose your benefits card, you can get a replacement by contacting us – 1-800-361-9888 or [email protected]. If you are just joining the benefits plans, your new card – and more information – will be mailed to you.
Who do I contact if I need help?
Call 1-800-361-9888 or email [email protected]. We’re here to help!
I’m not retired, but I don’t have coverage through work – can you help?
Yes. If you're working in the education sector in Canada but don't have benefits, you are eligible to apply for our plan. Learn more. Learn more.