IFHP Dentist in Red Deer, AB
Image Dental Care welcomes patients covered by the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) in Red Deer, Alberta. If you are a refugee, a protected person, or a newcomer with IFHP coverage, our team helps you understand your benefits, handles the billing with Medavie Blue Cross, and makes sure you know any cost before treatment starts.
New to Canada and not sure what your coverage includes? That is normal. Call us at (587) 797-2936 and we will walk you through it in plain language.
What is the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP)?
The Interim Federal Health Program is a federal program that gives temporary health coverage to certain people in Canada who are not yet covered by a provincial or territorial health plan. It is funded by the Government of Canada and administered by Medavie Blue Cross.
IFHP covers basic medical care and a set of supplemental benefits, which include some dental care. It is meant to be a safety net while newcomers get settled.
Who is eligible for IFHP dental coverage?
You may have IFHP coverage if you are in one of these groups:
- Resettled refugees
- Protected persons, including convention refugees
- Refugee claimants (people who have applied for asylum)
- People detained under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act
- Certain other groups approved by the Government of Canada, such as victims of human trafficking
Your coverage is shown on your IFHP eligibility document (sometimes called your IFHP certificate). Bring it to your visit, or a photo of it, so we can confirm what is covered before we begin.
What dental services does IFHP cover?
IFHP dental coverage focuses on urgent and essential care rather than cosmetic work. Depending on your eligibility group, covered services can include:
- Emergency and urgent dental exams
- X-rays needed for diagnosis
- Fillings for cavities
- Tooth extractions
- Treatment for pain, swelling, and infection
- Denture repairs and some denture services
Some treatments need prior approval (preauthorization) before they can be done. Our front desk handles that request for you and tells you what to expect first.
Important 2026 update: the 30% co-payment
As of May 1, 2026, IFHP added a co-payment for supplemental benefits, including dental care. This means IFHP now pays 70% of the eligible cost and you pay the remaining 30%. Basic medical care, like doctor visits and hospital care, stays fully covered with no co-payment.
We will always tell you your share of the cost in advance, so there are no surprises.
How to use your IFHP coverage at Image Dental Care
Getting care with your IFHP benefits is simple.
Step 1: Call or book online. Call Image Dental Care at (587) 797-2936 and tell us you have IFHP coverage. If you are in pain, let us know so we can see you sooner.
Step 2: Bring your IFHP document. Bring your IFHP eligibility document or certificate, or a clear photo of it. We use it to confirm your coverage with Medavie Blue Cross.
Step 3: We confirm your coverage first. Before treatment, we check what is covered, request any preauthorization if needed, and tell you the 30% co-payment amount, if any.
Step 4: We bill IFHP directly. For covered services, we submit the claim to Medavie Blue Cross for you. You only pay your share.
Why choose Image Dental Care for IFHP dental care in Red Deer?
- We welcome newcomers and refugee families. Every patient is treated with respect and care.
- We bill IFHP directly through Medavie Blue Cross, so you do not pay the full amount and wait for a refund.
- We explain everything in plain language and confirm your costs before we start.
- We offer a full range of services, including emergency dentistry and family dentistry, so your whole family can be seen in one place.
- We are easy to reach in central Red Deer, serving Blackfalds, Sylvan Lake, Lacombe, Penhold, and Springbrook.
CDCP FAQ
Need a dentist who accepts IFHP in Red Deer?
Image Dental Care is here to help newcomers and refugee families. Call (587) 797-2936 or book online, and we will confirm your coverage and get you in.
Image Dental Care 69 Dunlop Street, Suite 15, Red Deer, AB T4R 2H6 Phone: (587) 797-2936