COVID-19 Advance Payment Program (OHIP)
April 27th, 2020
The Ministry of Health recognizes that as a physician you are essential partners in the fight against COVID-19. In light of this they are committed to working with physicians who have been affected by the outbreak, including those who are unable to deliver their regular types of services during this time.
In the Bulletin (4754) the ministry announced that they are establishing an advance payment program to provide payments to eligible physicians to address any cash flow issues that may arise during the COVID-19 outbreak. This will ensure physicians have funding available to sustain their practices during this difficult time and enable them to return to regular practice as soon as the outbreak begins to subside.
How does it work?
The COVID-19 Advance Payment Program will provide monthly, interest-free, automated advance payments that will be set off against future OHIP payments.
These payments have been calculated based on the monthly average from the previous 12 months (April 1, 2019 to March 31, 2020). The program will automatically top up your payments to 70% of this average. If you’re eligible for advance payments, you can expect to see them on your Remittance Advice report under ‘MERG ADVANCE PAYMENT (COVID19).’ At this time, you won’t be able to check your eligibility so keep your eye out on your RA reports.
Payments are expected to go out in May, June and July. By accepting the advance payment, you are agree with the following terms and conditions:
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Recovery of advance payments will be made from a provider’s future OHIP payments beginning in November 2020;
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The total amount of the advance payments will be recovered in five equal installments against future OHIP payments from November 2020 to March 2021; and
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No interest will be applied.
If it’s determined you’re eligible, and you receive the payment but prefer not to take it then you can return the funds back to the ministry via cheque. The cheque is to be made payable to the Minister of Finance and can be sent to:
Financial Management Branch
49 Place d’Armes, 3rd Floor Kingston,
Ontario K7L 5J3
If, at any time, you have any questions don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’ve extended our support hours and are here to help. Otherwise, please check back to the COVID-19 Resource centre for more updates.
This article offers general information only and is not intended as legal, financial or other professional advice. A professional advisor should be consulted regarding your specific situation. While information presented is believed to be factual and current, its accuracy is not guaranteed and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. All expressions of opinion reflect the judgment of the author(s) as of the date of publication and are subject to change. No endorsement of any third parties or their advice, opinions, information, products or services is expressly given or implied by RBC Ventures Inc. or its affiliates.
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