Hospital fees for non-residents of B.C.
Coverage by another provincial medical plan
If you're covered by another provincial medical plan, have your health care number along with your expiry date (if applicable) so that we can bill your province on your behalf.
If you've received a bill, we may be missing information from you to properly bill your province. Contact us to have this corrected.
Some provincial medical plans have different levels of coverage so you may be billed for some services.
For instance, Quebec does not allow billing for physician services. Residents of Quebec pay the bill first and seek reimbursement from RAMQ with a paid receipt. Check with your province's health website for more information.
If you have recently permanently relocated to B.C., remember to apply for MSP coverage.
Visiting Canada or have no coverage?
Tourists or visitors are not covered by our provincial Medical Services Plan (MSP) and will be billed for health care services.
It is advised that you purchase travel or private insurance. Insurance claims are patient-led and must be started by the patient. Copies of the insurance documents are taken in order to confirm information with the insurance company. Most insurance companies require patients to pay their bills upfront and seek reimbursement. Depending on your insurance plan, you may also need to request a health record for your claim.
To qualify for MSP, you must be a resident of British Columbia. MSP coverage is not automatic and you need to apply for it to get your own B.C. Care Card. Visit the MSP website for more information on eligibility and coverage for study/work permits.
Facility costs vs physician costs
By receiving care at our hospitals (i.e. Emergency Department), you may receive two or more bills. The bills could include more than one doctor or specialist and there may be subsequent bills for medical imaging services.
Physicians' bills are issued by their own offices. Any questions or payments should be directed to the billing address shown on their statement.
Contact us
Accounts Receivable
Phone: 604-520-4860
Fax: 604-528-5417
Toll Free (Canada): (866) 844-0106