The Canadian Snowbird Association (CSA) announced Jan. 2 that is has filed a legal challenge against the Ontario Government's cuts to out-of-country emergency insurance coverage.

OHIP's Out-of-Country (OOC) Travellers Program, provided reimbursement for Ontario residents who face medical emergencies while travelling outside of the country. The program's termination came into effect on January 1, 2020. Ontario is the only jurisdiction in Canada to cut all emergency medical coverage for residents travelling abroad.

"We are filing this legal challenge on behalf of our members, and all Ontario travellers, in order to protect their right to out-of-country emergency medical care which is enshrined in the Canada Health Act (CHA)," said Karen Huestis, president of the Canadian Snowbird Association. "These cuts are an egregious violation of the portability requirement of the CHA and must be addressed head-on."