Information on MSP Coverage from Your Optometrist in Victoria
British Columbia’s Medical Services Plan (MSP) extends optometric health coverage to children, adults, and seniors. Children and seniors covered by the MSP may be entitled to one full eye examination every year. Having a comprehensive eye exam performed on an annual basis allows your optometrist to track any change or loss in vision, prescribe glasses or contact lenses, as well as look for any signs of ocular disease.
If it’s been a while since your last checkup, we recommend using our website’s convenient Find an Optometrist feature. This will help narrow down your search for an optometrist in Victoria or its neighbouring cities.
Who is Eligible for an Annual Eye Exam Under MSP?
The government of British Columbia provides the residents with vision care benefits through the Medical Services Plan. The benefits covered for different age brackets include:
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Children up to 18 years of age are entitled to a comprehensive annual eye exam per year
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Adults between 19-64 years of age are eligible for medically-required eye exams, including suspected trauma, injuries, ocular diseases, and medications or diseases containing high ocular health risks
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Seniors 65 years of age and above are also entitled to a comprehensive annual eye exam per year
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Do you want to get more details on how your age can impact the MSP coverage? Consult your optometrist.
How Much of My Costs are Covered by MSP?
With a Medical Services Plan coverage, you can get an annual distribution for eye examinations in addition to minor and follow-up exams. The optometrists can opt out of the MSP and devise a separate payment schedule as required.
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To get more information on MSP coverage, please visit the Ministry of Health website.
What is Not Covered by MSP?
MSP may not cover all the optometric services. The most common services excluded by an MSP coverage include:
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Contact lens fittings
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Eyeglasses, low-vision aids, contact lenses,
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Treatments such as eye coordination exercises, and eye-related medications
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Eye examinations required by potential employers or third parties
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Laser refractive eye surgery management (including pre and post-operative visits)
Contact Lens Fittings
Refer to your local optometrist for contact lens coverage under MSP, and other insurance options.
BC’s Healthy Kids Program
The BC Healthy Kids Program aims to extend financial help to low and middle-income families to meet prescription eyewear, basic dental care and hearing aid needs for their children. Children under 19 years of age with an active MSP premium assistance through the Ministry of Health, BC, are eligible for the program.
Contact Your MSP Coverage Provider
MSP’s Customer Service Hours
Monday - Friday: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Limited, 24-Hour automated services are available concerning your MSP coverage, as well as general information on MSP services and benefits.
Medical Services Plan
P.O. Box 9035 Stn Prov Govt
Victoria, BC V8W 9E3
Telephone
Victoria: 250-952-2657
Outside of Vancouver (toll-free): 1-800-663-7100
Fax
250-405-3595
For general enquiries: mspenquiries@hibc.gov.bc.ca
Affiliated Professional Organizations
At Victoria Optometric Association, we take pride in being professionally affiliated with: