Medical Services Plan (MSP)

The Medical Services Plan (MSP) covers the cost of standard ward rooms for hospital stays. Private or semi-private rooms can be requested, but residents are responsible for the extra cost. Medically necessary services are covered during hospital stays.

The Fair PharmaCare Program covers eligible prescription drugs, including insulin, syringes, needles, and a limited quantity of blood glucose test strips. Coverage is income-based, with deductibles and maximums calculated from net family income. First Nations residents are covered under the First Nations Health Benefits Plan (FNBC), which acts as the primary payer for eligible drug costs, with private plans acting as secondary payers. B.C.’s Biosimilars Initiative ensures that only biosimilar versions of eligible drugs are covered by PharmaCare.

Residents of B.C. are covered for routine eye exams if they are under 19 years old or 65 and older. Medically required eye exams are also covered for all ages, regardless of the reason for the exam. Prescription glasses and contact lenses are not included.

Coverage is provided for medically necessary in-hospital dental surgeries and orthodontic services related to severe congenital facial abnormalities. However, most routine dental procedures, such as cleanings, fillings, and extractions, are not covered. Residents are encouraged to review the specific dental services covered by provincial programs to determine eligibility.

Essential extended services, such as paramedical therapies, may be covered if residents are eligible for general health supplements. A medical practitioner or nurse must confirm an acute medical need with no other resources available.

Financial aid is available to help cover the cost of the least expensive, appropriate hearing aids and associated repairs for those who qualify. Coverage is determined based on financial need, and the goal is to provide basic functional hearing aids to those who require them. The British Columbia PharmaCare program covers insulin pumps and Continuous Glucose Monitors for eligible individuals who meet the medical criteria and have Special Authority approval. Prostheses, including those for maintaining basic functionality, may be covered for those who meet the eligibility requirements. Some ostomy supplies and orthoses are also covered, depending on individual medical need.

Ambulance services in B.C. are not fully covered under the Medical Services Plan (MSP). Residents with a valid B.C. Care card pay a subsidized flat fee for ground ambulance services, while other residents are required to cover the full cost. Coverage for air ambulance is generally not included, except in specific emergency situations. For more information, visit B.C. Emergency Health Services.

Publicly subsidized home care services in B.C. offer support based on individual needs. Services can be provided in your home or a supportive housing environment and include personal care, nursing, rehabilitation, and home support services. The type and extent of care vary depending on an assessment of your condition.

The Medical Services Plan (MSP) covers medically required emergency services provided by a licensed physician while outside the country. Coverage is limited to a maximum daily payment, and any costs exceeding this amount are the resident's responsibility. MSP does not cover out-patient services or non-hospital treatments.

The Medical Services Plan (MSP) does not offer coverage for accidental death and dismemberment. Coverage for such events must be obtained through private insurance providers.