How to Cancel a Health Card in Saskatchewan After a Death

The death of a loved one brings a multitude of responsibilities, including the management of their administrative and legal affairs. One of the important tasks is cancelling their health card with the Saskatchewan Health Authority. This process ensures the deceased’s records are properly updated and helps prevent identity theft. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to cancel a health card in Saskatchewan after a death.

Importance of Cancelling a Health Card

Cancelling a deceased person’s health card is crucial for several reasons:

1. Preventing Fraud: Ensures the health card cannot be used fraudulently.
2. Administrative Accuracy: Helps maintain accurate health records and prevents any future issues related to the deceased’s health information.
3. Finalizing Affairs: Part of the broader process of settling the deceased’s estate and ensuring all necessary agencies are informed of the death.

Steps to Cancel a Health Card in Saskatchewan

1. Gather Necessary Documents

Before contacting any government office, make sure you have the required documents. These typically include:

• Proof of Death: This can be a death certificate, a funeral director's statement, or a Medical Certificate of Death.
• Health Card: The deceased’s health card, if available.
• Your Identification: Valid ID that proves your relationship to the deceased, such as a driver's license or passport, may be required.

2. Notify eHealth Saskatchewan

eHealth Saskatchewan is responsible for managing health cards in the province. Here are the ways you can notify them:

By Mail

Sending the documents by mail is a straightforward way to handle the cancellation. Follow these steps:

1. Write a cover letter explaining the request to cancel the health card. Include the deceased’s full name, health card number (if available), and date of death.
2. Enclose photocopies of the required documents: proof of death and your identification.
3. Mail the documents to:

eHealth Saskatchewan
Health Registries
2130 11th Avenue
Regina, SK S4P 0J5

By Phone

You can also contact eHealth Saskatchewan by phone to notify them of the death:

1. Call eHealth Saskatchewan at 1-800-667-7551 (toll-free) or 306-787-3251 (in Regina).
2. Provide the necessary information over the phone. You may still need to mail in the documents for verification.

By Email

If you prefer, you can notify eHealth Saskatchewan by email:

1. Email them at healthregistries@ehealthsask.ca.
2. Include scanned copies of the proof of death and your identification.
3. Provide a clear explanation in your email, including the deceased’s full name, health card number (if available), and date of death.

3. Inform Other Relevant Agencies

In addition to eHealth Saskatchewan, you should also inform other relevant agencies that the deceased was registered with, including:

• Canada Revenue Agency (CRA): For tax purposes, ensure the CRA is informed. You can contact them at 1-800-959-8281.
• Old Age Security (OAS) and Canada Pension Plan (CPP): Notify Service Canada to stop these benefits and potentially apply for death benefits. Contact Service Canada at 1-800-277-9914.

4. Secure the Deceased’s Personal Information

After cancelling the health card, take additional steps to secure the deceased's personal information:

• Destroy the Health Card: Once cancelled, safely destroy the health card by cutting it into pieces.
• Monitor Accounts: Keep an eye on the deceased’s financial accounts to ensure no fraudulent activity occurs.
• Inform Financial Institutions: Notify banks, credit card companies, and other financial institutions of the death.

Tips for a Smooth Process

Double-Check Documentation

Ensure that all documents are complete and accurate before submitting them. Missing or incorrect information can delay the process.

Keep Copies

Make copies of all documents you submit for your records. This includes the cover letter, proof of death, and your identification.

Follow Up

If you haven’t received confirmation that the health card has been cancelled after a few weeks, follow up with eHealth Saskatchewan to ensure your request has been processed.

Cancelling a health card in Saskatchewan after a death is a necessary step in settling the affairs of a deceased loved one. By following the proper procedures and ensuring all documentation is in order, you can complete this process efficiently and with minimal stress. Remember to notify other relevant agencies to fully update the deceased’s records and protect their personal information from misuse. This not only helps prevent fraud but also ensures that their legacy is handled with the care and respect it deserves.

If you have any further questions or need assistance, contacting eHealth Saskatchewan directly can provide additional guidance and support.