British Columbia provincial health care plan (MSP and Pharmacare)

Eligibility and coverage details for British Columbia

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GHIP

Who is covered by the British Columbia provincial government health care plan?

The Medical Services Plan (MSP) and PharmaCare cover all eligible residents of B.C. MSP provides basic healthcare services, while PharmaCare offers prescription drug coverage. Residents must be enrolled in MSP to access PharmaCare.

GHIP

Are you eligible?

To qualify for the Medical Services Plan (MSP), you must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident and reside in B.C. for at least 6 months annually. Certain exceptions apply.

What's covered

Coverage details for the British Columbia provincial Health Care Plan (MSP and Pharmacare)

Benefit
Coverage details
Prescription Drugs

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.

Ambulance

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.

Dental benefits

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.

Vision care

Residents of B.C. are covered for routine eye exams if they are under 18 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. Learn more about eye exam coverage.

Hospital

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. Learn more about hospital stays.

Paramedicals

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. Learn more about which extended medical therapies are covered.

Hearing aids

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. Learn more about hearing aids coverage in British Columbia.

Medical equipment & supplies

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.

Paramedicals

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. Learn more about which extended medical therapies are covered.

Nursing benefits and home care

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.

Accidental death and dismemberment

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.

Out of country

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.

Disclaimer

The information provided on this page is intended for general informational purposes only and may be subject to change. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, provincial and territorial health coverage details can vary and are regularly updated. We recommend contacting your respective GHIP or consulting a legal, tax, or insurance advisor for advice tailored to your specific situation.

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Extended Health Care

How Personal Health & Dental Insurance Complements Your Provincial Plan

While your provincial or territorial health plan covers many essential medical services, there are important areas where personal health insurance can help extend your coverage, giving you broader protection and peace of mind.

Bridge the Gaps in Coverage

Provincial health plans often leave gaps, such as prescription drugs, dental visits, and vision care. Personal health insurance can bridge these gaps by covering expenses your government plan doesn’t, ensuring you’re not left with unexpected out-of-pocket costs.

Be Ready for Life’s Health Changes

Even with your government health coverage, there are still costs that can catch you off guard, like prescription drugs, dental care, and vision expenses. A personal health plan can step in to cover these out-of-pocket expenses, making sure you’re protected from financial surprises.

Secure Your Health & Financial Future

Investing in personal health insurance today can save you from paying high costs for treatments or services down the road. By taking a proactive approach, you can ensure you get the care you need now, avoiding bigger health issues—and bigger bills—later on.

Get in touch

Talk to an advisor who can understand your situation, answer your questions and help you build an insurance plan appropriate for you and your family.

How to contact your GHIP

For more information on the latest coverage details, please contact the British Columbia provincial health care plan directly at:

Health Insurance BC
P.O. Box 9035 Stn Prov Govt
Victoria, BC V8W 9E3
Lower Mainland: 604-683-7151
Toll-free: 1-800-663-7100
Email: [email protected]

Website: Health Insurance BC