Health insurance glossary
Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP)
Plain-English definition
The Interim Federal Health Program is the federal program that provides health coverage to refugee claimants and protected persons. It includes basic, supplemental and prescription drug benefits. Since May 1, 2026, basic benefits remain at no cost to the patient, while each prescription costs $4 and other supplemental services cost 30% of the eligible amount.
By the HealthRate editorial desk
Where this applies: Federal. Applies across Canada.
How it works
The program has three parts: basic benefits, supplemental benefits and prescription drug benefits (IRCC, updated May 1, 2026).
Since May 1, 2026, basic benefits remain at no cost, but people covered pay $4 for each prescription and 30% of the eligible cost of other supplemental services (IRCC; program administrator).
Refugee claimants and protected persons are covered by this federal program rather than by a provincial plan, so the provincial rules on what is covered and what you pay do not apply to them.
Why it matters
The 2026 change means prescriptions and some services now carry a cost. Knowing what the program pays, and what it charges, helps you plan the cost of care.