Burial Coverage

Burial Coverage

In certain, specific circumstances, the Government of Nunavut is responsible for burials.

Who is covered?

• Individuals under the care of the Department of Family Services through a public guardianship order or under the Children and Family Services Act.
• Medical travel Client under the Department of Health (Medical Travel Policy).
• Medical travel Client Escort or Medical Escort under the Department of Health (Medical Travel Policy).

The Department of Health Medical Travel Coverage: For Department of Health, if a Client, a Client Escort, or a Medical Escort dies while on approved travel, the following is covered:

• The remains will be transported to the Nunavut community of residence.
  • With prior approval, the remains can be returned to a community other than where the deceased last resided as long as there is no extra cost to Health.
• The remains will be prepared to meet minimum airline regulations; including provision of the most economical casket.
• Should an autopsy be required, the Department of Justice, through the Coroner’s Office, will pay for the transportation of the remains to and from the community of origin, the autopsy and the embalming, but not burial costs.

A Client, Client Escort, or Medical Escort is covered under the Medical Travel Policy on the day they begin to travel, typically the day before the first scheduled appointment. Medical Travel ends immediately after medical clearance is received and they have returned home (on the next available flight).

The Department of Family Services Coverage: For the Department of Family Services, if an individual under care through a public guardianship order or under the Children and Family Services Act dies, the following is covered:

• The remains will be transported to the Nunavut community of residence.
  • With prior approval, the remains can be returned to a community other than where the deceased last resided as long as there is no extra cost to Family Services.
• The remains will be prepared to meet minimum airline regulations; including provision of the most economical casket.
• Burial costs (i.e. digging of grave).
• Administration fees.
• Clothing for the deceased.
• Should an autopsy be required, the Department of Justice, through the Coroner’s Office, will pay for the transportation of the remains to and from the community of origin, the autopsy and the embalming, but not burial costs.

Where can I find more information? Department of Health Medical Travel Guidelines: