British Columbia

GHIP

British Columbia provincial health care plan (MSP and Pharmacare)

Eligibility and coverage details for British Columbia

GHIP

Who is eligible for the British Columbia provincial government health care plan?

All eligible residents of British Columbia, including Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and certain individuals on work permits or study visas. Temporary residents may also be covered under specific conditions.

Eligibility criteria for British Columbia include being physically present in the province for at least 183 days in a 12-month period, with specific exceptions for students, armed forces members, and others. Registration with the respective health insurance program is mandatory.

Checkup illustration

GHIP

What's covered?

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

Benefit
Details
Prescription Drugs

British Columbia provides coverage for prescribed medications through its public drug plan, though certain conditions, income levels, or age groups may apply. Coverage often includes essential medications, but individuals may need private or supplemental plans for full coverage.

Ambulance

Ambulance services in British Columbia are covered for medically necessary transportation to the nearest hospital. Some out-of-pocket expenses may apply depending on the circumstances, and certain types of transport may require private insurance.

Dental

Basic dental services are not generally covered by the public health system in British Columbia. However, some services may be available to children, seniors, or those in low-income brackets through specific government programs.

Vision

Routine vision care such as eye exams and corrective lenses are not covered under British Columbia's health plan, except for certain groups like children and seniors. Medical treatments related to eye diseases are typically covered.

Hospital

Hospital stays, including medically necessary surgeries and treatments, are fully covered for residents of British Columbia under the provincial health insurance plan. This includes diagnostic tests, surgeries, and inpatient care.

Paramedical

British Columbia may offer limited coverage for paramedical services, such as physiotherapy or chiropractic care, primarily for those with specific medical needs or through supplementary programs.

Hearing aids

Coverage for hearing aids in British Columbia is limited, often available to children or individuals with specific needs. Some government programs may offer partial subsidies, while most adults will require private insurance or out-of-pocket payments.

Medical equipment & supplies

Medical supplies such as prosthetics, orthotics, or other essential devices may be covered under British Columbia's health plan for individuals with specific needs. Coverage typically depends on income or medical necessity, with some costs potentially requiring private insurance.

Nursing & home care

Nursing and home care services in British Columbia are available to eligible individuals, often those with chronic conditions or recovering from surgery. These services are typically subsidized but may involve co-payments or additional costs depending on income levels.

Accidental death and dismemberment

Accidental death and dismemberment coverage is generally not included in British Columbia's public health care plan. Private insurance is typically needed for this type of protection.

Out of country

Residents of British Columbia are covered for emergency medical services while traveling abroad, but reimbursement is often limited to the equivalent cost within the province. Travelers are encouraged to purchase additional private insurance for full protection.

Disclaimer

The content on this page is provided for general informational purposes only and may change over time. Although we strive to ensure the accuracy of the information, the details of provincial and territorial health coverage can differ and are frequently updated. For personalized advice or the most current information, we recommend reaching out directly to your provincial or territorial GHIP, or consulting with a qualified legal, tax, or insurance professional.

GHIP

Contact Information for British Columbia Health Care

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: info@hibc.gov.bc.ca

Website: Health Insurance BC

Get a Free Quote in 3 Minutes

Compare personalized quotes from Canada's top insurers. Licensed advisors available to help. No pressure, no obligation-just honest advice and better coverage.

Trusted by 10,000+ Canadian families.