Can I get reimbursed for out-of-country surgery in Manitoba?

Reimbursement for out-of-country surgery in Manitoba may be possible if prior approval is obtained or specific conditions, like urgent need or unavailability of adequate care in Canada, are met, as per provincial legislation.

What is Manitoba's spinal surgery wait time like?

Manitoba has faced significant wait times for spinal surgery, with some patients experiencing delays of up to four years, leading to deteriorating health conditions.

What did the Manitoba Health Appeal Board decide?

The Manitoba Health Appeal Board recommended that the province reimburse a patient over $77,000 for out-of-country spinal surgery due to urgent medical needs and provincial delays.

Home / Health / Manitoba to Fund $77K Out-of-Country Surgery

Manitoba to Fund $77K Out-of-Country Surgery

27 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Manitoba appeal board orders province to fund patient's surgery.
Patient spent over $77,000 on out-of-country spinal surgery.
Delays led to severe pain and loss of bowel/bladder function.

A Manitoba appeals board has recommended the province cover more than $77,000 for a patient's out-of-country spinal surgery. The patient endured severe pain and loss of bowel and bladder function due to significant delays in the provincial healthcare system, with their referral process taking four years.

The board's October decision emphasized the patient's urgent condition and rapid deterioration, stating the situation was "deeply concerning." Despite Manitoba Health denying reimbursement, the appeal board found the patient met the criteria for urgent care and should be reimbursed for the surgery, diagnostics, accommodation, and travel costs.

Manitoba Health Minister Uzoma Asagwara's office stated they are reviewing the board's recommendations and will respond based on clinical guidance and provincial legislation. This case highlights ongoing concerns about spinal care wait times in Manitoba.

Disclaimer: This story has been auto-aggregated and auto-summarised by a computer program. This story has not been edited or created by the Feedzop team.