BC MSP Coverage: A Guide for Residents

British Columbia\'s Medical Services Plan (MSP) is the province\'s public health insurance program. As of January 2020, MSP premiums were eliminated - all eligible BC residents are covered at no cost. What MSP covers includes medically necessary physician visits (in-person and virtual), hospital services, diagnostic services (X-rays, lab tests ordered by a physician), maternity care, and mental health services from physicians. What MSP does not cover includes most prescription medications (PharmaCare provides some coverage), dental care, vision care (except for children under 19 and some low-income residents), physiotherapy, chiropractic, massage therapy, and ambulance services ($80 ground ambulance charge). BC PharmaCare helps with prescription costs for eligible residents. Coverage is income-based - once your family\'s out-of-pocket drug costs reach a certain percentage of your net income, PharmaCare covers additional costs. BC also offers the Fair PharmaCare program (for most residents), Plan C (income assistance recipients), and Plan G (First Nations health benefits). To enrol in MSP, register through the Health Insurance BC website. New residents from other provinces should apply upon arrival - there is typically a 3-month waiting period. *This article is for informational purposes only.*

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Content reviewed by licensed Canadian physicians. Last updated February 2026.