Canadian diplomats stationed abroad are encountering significant difficulties accessing health insurance due to ongoing issues with MSH International, the company currently administering overseas coverage.
The problems began in July 2023, when MSH International took over responsibility for administering overseas coverage for the Public Service Health Care Plan (PSHCP). Since then, diplomats have reported various issues, including delays and difficulties in processing claims.
A cyberattack on MSH International on February 9th further exacerbated the situation, leading to a suspension of claim processing and increasing uncertainty for diplomats seeking healthcare.
In a letter to their superiors, Canadian diplomats abroad expressed their concerns about the “untenable” situation caused by MSH International’s problems.
The letter highlighted the financial burden and stress placed on diplomats due to the delays and lack of access to healthcare.
The letter also criticized the Treasury Board Secretariat (TBS), the government agency overseeing government contracts, for its lack of clear communication and solutions regarding the situation. Diplomats are particularly frustrated by the absence of a concrete timeline for resolving the ongoing issues.
With limited access to healthcare and facing financial difficulties, some diplomats, especially those stationed in countries without universal healthcare like the United States, are considering switching to private insurance plans.
While MSH International states they expect to resume claim processing “in the very near future,” they haven’t provided a specific timeframe. The TBS also declined to comment on a timeline for resolving the situation.
As of now, Canadian diplomats stationed abroad continue to face significant challenges accessing healthcare due to the ongoing issues with MSH International.
