Northern Health Travel Grant: What You Should Know
- Colton C
- Jun 2
- 5 min read
Accessing healthcare in Northern Ontario often means more than just booking an appointment—it can also involve hours of driving, overnight stays, and unexpected travel costs. For residents of remote and northern communities, these costs can add up quickly, creating financial strain during already stressful medical journeys.
The Northern Health Travel Grant (NHTG) is designed to ease that burden. If you or a loved one needs to travel a long distance to see a medical specialist not available locally, the NHTG program could help cover some of your travel and accommodation expenses.
This guide breaks down the program, explains how to apply, and offers tips to ensure you get the most out of your claim.
What Is the Northern Health Travel Grant?
The Northern Health Travel Grant is a reimbursement program provided by the Ontario Ministry of Health. It offers financial assistance to eligible residents of Northern Ontario who must travel long distances to access medically necessary, OHIP-insured healthcare services.
This includes travel to consult a medical specialist or receive diagnostic testing or treatment that cannot be provided within 100 km of where the patient lives.
Why This Program Matters
Healthcare equity is a serious concern in Ontario. While residents in southern urban centres may have quick access to dozens of specialists, those in Northern Ontario often face limited local services. The NHTG plays a crucial role in addressing these regional healthcare gaps by ensuring residents aren’t financially penalized for where they live.
Without this program, many would have to choose between paying out-of-pocket for expensive travel and postponing or forgoing necessary treatment.
Who Qualifies for the NHTG?
To be eligible for reimbursement under the Northern Health Travel Grant, you must meet all of the following criteria:
✅ You have a valid Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) card.
✅ You reside in Northern Ontario, defined by a specific geographic region.
✅ You are referred by a physician or nurse practitioner practicing in Northern Ontario.
✅ The medical specialist you are visiting is located at least 100 km away from your community.
✅ The referred medical service is not available locally.
✅ The appointment is medically necessary and involves an OHIP-insured specialist or diagnostic facility.
Geographic Areas Covered
The program only applies to residents of Northern Ontario, which includes areas within:
Algoma District
Cochrane District
Kenora District
Manitoulin District
Nipissing District
Parry Sound District
Rainy River District
Sudbury District
Timiskaming District
If you're unsure whether your location qualifies, contact your local health unit or consult the map provided on the official NHTG website.
Recent Program Changes (2024)
As of December 1, 2024, the Northern Health Travel Grant received several important updates aimed at improving accessibility and reimbursement rates:
Minimum travel distance lowered to 100 km (previously 200 km)
Accommodation allowance increased from $100 to $135 per night
Expanded escort eligibility for patients requiring support due to age, disability, or complex medical needs
Simplified documentation and processing timelines
These updates were introduced following years of advocacy from patients and healthcare professionals concerned about financial barriers to care.
What the Grant Covers
Understanding what the grant will and won’t reimburse is key to preparing your application.
✅ Eligible for Reimbursement
Private vehicle mileage: Reimbursed at a per-kilometre rate for the return trip.
Public transportation: Includes bus, train, and in some cases, air travel (if medically necessary).
Accommodation costs: Up to $135 per night with an original receipt.
Escort travel: When the patient requires assistance and the escort is approved.
❌ Not Eligible for Reimbursement
Meals and food costs
Parking expenses
Travel to non-OHIP-covered practitioners
Travel to services available within 100 km
Taxi fares (unless pre-approved in special medical circumstances)
How Much Can You Receive?
The amount of reimbursement varies depending on your travel situation. Here’s a breakdown:
Mileage
Reimbursed at approximately $0.41 per kilometre (subject to change based on provincial rates). Only the most direct route is considered.
Accommodation
Up to $135 per night, for patients and approved escorts. An original receipt from a licensed hotel or motel must be submitted.
Escort Costs
If an escort is required due to the patient’s medical condition (for example, a child, senior, or someone with a disability), their travel and accommodation may also be reimbursed under the same conditions.
Examples of Reimbursement Scenarios
🔹 Basic One-Day Trip (500 km round trip, no overnight stay)
Mileage: $205
Accommodation: $0
Total: $205
🔹 Overnight Trip (500 km round trip, 1 night in hotel)
Mileage: $205
Accommodation: $135
Total: $340
🔹 Multi-Day Treatment (1000 km round trip, 3 nights in hotel)
Mileage: $410
Accommodation: $405
Total: $815
Keep in mind that every case is different and requires proper documentation to support your claim.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply
1. Download the Application Form
The NHTG application is available online. Make sure you download the most recent version.
2. Have It Completed by Both Medical Parties
Part A is completed by your Northern Ontario referring provider.
Part B is completed by the medical specialist or diagnostic facility you visited.
3. Mail the Completed Form
Send the original, completed form (along with any required receipts) to:
Ministry of Health - Claims Services Branch
Northern Health Travel Grant, Sudbury office
159 Cedar Street, 7th Floor
Sudbury, Ontario P3E 6A5
Forms must be submitted within 12 months of the appointment date.
Processing Time and Tips
⏱️ How Long Does It Take?
Processing typically takes 6 to 8 weeks
Longer wait times are possible during peak months
You will receive a cheque in the mail once your application is approved
✅ Tips to Speed Up Processing
Use black or blue ink only
Submit clear, original receipts
Double-check for all signatures
Include your OHIP number and appointment date
Use registered mail if you're concerned about losing documents
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Submitting photocopied or altered receipts
❌ Leaving sections of the form blank
❌ Using white-out or correction tape
❌ Applying without a proper referral
❌ Sending in the form after the 12-month deadline
Even small errors can delay your reimbursement—or worse, lead to denial.
Can I Appeal a Denied Application?
Yes. If your application is denied and you believe it was in error, you can:
Request clarification by calling the NHTG office
Submit additional documentation if requested
Write a formal letter of appeal including supporting medical records
📞 For help, call the Northern Health Travel Grant Office at 1-800-262-6524.
Do’s and Don’ts of Applying
✅ Do:
Keep a log of all travel dates and times
Take photos of receipts as backup
Follow up if you haven’t heard anything after 10 weeks
Store copies of every form you submit
❌ Don’t:
Wait until the last minute to apply
Forget to include escort documentation if applicable
Assume you’re not eligible—always double-check
Use online maps for mileage calculations (only Ministry-calculated routes are valid)
Final Thoughts
If you live in Northern Ontario and need to travel for medical care, the Northern Health Travel Grant can provide vital financial support. While the process does require documentation and patience, the benefits far outweigh the effort, especially when faced with repeated long-distance medical visits.
With recent program updates, a broader eligibility base, and increased reimbursement amounts, now is a better time than ever to take advantage of what the NHTG offers.