Can I Go To The Hospital Without A BC Services Card?
Not everyone carries their BC Services Card at all times, but what happens when an unexpected health crisis strikes? Can you go to the hospital without a BC Services Card in British Columbia? We’ll be answering just that.
Can I Go To The Hospital Without A BC Services Card in British Columbia?
Yes, you can go to the hospital and receive care if you don’t have a BC Services Card. However, you may need to pay out-of-pocket for the costs associated with your care.
Believe it or not, people visit the hospital without their health card all the time. Health emergencies often take place when you least expect it, and it’s incredibly normal not to have your BC Services Card on hand at all times.
The hospital will never refuse care just because you don’t have your BC Services Card on hand.
What Happens When You Visit The Hospital Without A BC Services Card
Asking for your BC Services Card is one of the first things the hospital will do when you arrive. Be transparent if you don’t have one. The hospital staff there will give you more information about how services work without your BC Services Card.
If you do have a valid BC Services Card, but you haven’t brought it with you to the hospital, you can still receive free health care. The hospital will likely contact you at a later date to confirm your Medical Services Plan (MSP) eligibility. If you don’t get in contact with the hospital about your eligibility, you may still be billed for the services you received. Ensure you communicate with the hospital as soon as possible regarding your BC Services Card to prevent being billed.
If you don’t have a BC Services Card at all, you are not able to receive publicly-funded health care and will have to pay out-of-pocket for your care.
What British Columbia MSP Covers
Generally, British Columbia MSP will cover any essential medical services, including hospital stays. It won’t cover non-essential medical expenses, which includes dental care, vision care, prescription drugs, and elective medical procedures.
For dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage, most Canadians turn to private health insurance or their employee benefits. Private health insurance ensures that you don’t pay high out-of-pocket medical costs. There’s more flexibility in the dental care, vision care, and prescription drug coverage you can receive under a private plan.
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Getting Your BC Services Card
If you’re spending a significant amount of time in British Columbia, it's important to obtain a BC Services Card to prevent being billed on medical expenses usually covered by the government. You are eligible for public health insurance as a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.