By understanding your options for healthcare and mental health resources, you can better navigate living and studying in BC. Be sure to take full advantage of the services available to ensure your well-being and academic success during your time in Canada.
British Columbia (BC) has a publicly funded healthcare system that is designed to provide residents with access to essential medical services. As an international student, it’s important to understand how healthcare works in BC and the options available to you.
The Medical Services Plan (MSP) is BC’s provincial health insurance program. As an international student, you are required to have health coverage while studying in BC. Depending on your situation, this may be through:
· BC MSP (if you’re eligible after three months of residency in BC).
· Health Insurance (if you’re not yet eligible for MSP, you will need to have health coverage through private insurance until you qualify for MSP).
To register for MSP, apply as soon as you arrive. Your coverage may start three months after your arrival date in British Columbia. You should get private health care insurance while you wait. You can find more details about eligibility and how to apply for MSP here: Apply for MSP – Province of British Columbia
If it’s not an emergency but you need immediate medical attention, there are many walk-in clinics available across the province. In case of urgent medical situations or emergencies, you can visit one of BC’s emergency departments (EDs).
· Walk-In Clinics: These clinics do not require an appointment and can provide services for common issues such as illnesses, injuries, or routine checkups. You can also visit one of the many urgent and primary care clinics in the Lower Mainland.
· Emergency Services: Accessed via the nearest hospital emergency room, where immediate care is provided for urgent medical needs.
Once you’re registered under MSP, you can access family doctors (GPs) for primary healthcare needs, such as routine check-ups, illness management, and referrals to specialists if necessary. Some international students may have difficulty finding a family doctor immediately, so it’s recommended to use online resources to find a doctor accepting new patients.
Prescription medications in BC are not fully covered by the MSP, so you’ll need additional insurance coverage or pay out-of-pocket for medications.
Mental health is a key concern for students, particularly when adjusting to life in a new country. British Columbia offers a range of free or affordable mental health resources for those who need support.
BC Mental Health Support Resources
1. BC Crisis Centre:
· 24/7 Crisis Line: call 9-8-8 or 1-800-784-2433. This service offers support for those experiencing acute mental health crises or needing immediate assistance. Home – Crisis Centre BC
2. HealthLink BC
· Call 8-1-1 for free, confidential, 24/7 health information and support from a nurse, pharmacist, or dietitian. They can offer advice on a variety of health and mental health concerns, including non-urgent mental health issues, and can refer you to specialized services in your area. HealthLinkBC | HealthLink BC
3. MindHealthBC
· An online mental health resource designed to provide students and residents of BC with information and support on managing mental health challenges. It also includes resources and links to provincial mental health programs. MindHealthBC
4. Here2Talk
· Here2Talk provides free, confidential mental health counselling and community referral services to all students at B.C. post-secondary institutions, available 24/7 through app,
phone, and web. Support is available in various languages upon request, with efforts made to match you with a counsellor in your preferred language. Here2Talk – Home
5. Other Free Mental Health Services for Students
· Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) – BC Division: Offers resources and programs to help with mental health and wellness, including support groups, workshops, and advocacy. Home – CMHA British Columbia
