What is included in extended health benefits?
Emma Jordan
Published Feb 24, 2026
Extended health benefits provide protection against the high cost of medical services and treatments not covered by the province’s health care plan. Coverage can include preferred hospital accommodation, ambulance, accidental dental, psychology services, hearing aids, and much more.
What is extended health care in BC?
Extended health care is a supplemental plan that pays for prescription drugs, health care services and equipment beyond what Medical Services Plan of BC or other provincial health plans cover.
What happens to MSP when you retire?
Your benefits may have included coverage for your Medical Services Plan (MSP) premiums, extended health care, prescription drugs, dental, vision and possibly even disability and life insurance. Once you retire, all of the costs that were previously covered by your employer will be transferred to you.
How much does extended health insurance cost Canada?
Annual premiums for one full-time employee costs on average $2,102 for family extended health care coverage, according to a 2015 Conference Board of Canada report. For a dental plan, the average annual premium cost $1,419 for family coverage, the report showed.
What extended insurance covers?
Extended coverage is a term used in the property insurance business. Extended coverage added insurance against loss by the perils of windstorm, hail, explosion, civil commotion, riot and riot attending a strike, aircraft damage, vehicle damage, and smoke damage.
Are extended health and dental premiums a taxable benefit?
Private Health Plan Premiums – Extended Health Benefit Costs Many employees pay all or a portion of the premiums for their extended health benefits, with the premiums being deducted from their pay. When the employer pays the premiums for provincial health care plan, this is considered a taxable benefit to the employee.
Do seniors pay for healthcare in BC?
Registration is free and there are no premiums to pay. When you register, PharmaCare assigns you a deductible and family maximum based on your income. Through the year, each time you pay for eligible prescription drugs or other items, the cost automatically counts towards your deductible and family maximum.
How much is BC medical per month?
BC Medical Services Plan Monthly Premiums 2018 and 2019
| Adjusted Net Income (individual or couple) | One Adult | Couple |
|---|---|---|
| first $26,000 | no premium | no premium |
| over $26,000 up to $28,000 | $11.50 | $23 |
| over $28,000 up to $30,000 | 17.50 | 35 |
| over $30,000 up to $34,000 | 23.00 | 46 |
How long do benefits last after retirement?
When you do retire, you will probably have the option of continuing on your employer’s health plan for at least 18 months, thanks to a federal law called the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA). It says that when you leave your job, your employer must let you keep your coverage for up to 18 months.
What are the health benefits of Pacific Blue Cross?
That’s why we have flexible health benefits for your small business. Improve your physical and mental health by walking with Pacific Blue Cross. Learn more. You have access to our network of health care providers empowering you and your family’s pursuit of wellbeing.
How many members does Pacific Blue Cross have?
You are supported by over 700 health care experts right here in B.C and around the clock through our digital tools. You save on health and wellness products and services as well as exclusive member discounts on Pacific Blue Cross insurance.
Why are dental claims excluded from Pacific Blue Cross?
These expenses must be paid by the at-fault party or their liability insurer. These claims are excluded from Pacific Blue Cross health/dental plans to protect your health or dental plan and ensure you continue to have access to health or dental coverage. What is PharmaCare?
Where to find Pacific Blue Cross in BC?
Visit the Pacific Blue Cross COVID-19 Resource Centre Only Pacific Blue Cross rewards you when you make healthy choices with extra savings on your personal health insurance. Because taking care of yourself deserves a reward. We’re BC’s #1 health benefits provider, powering the health and well-being of 1 in 3 British Columbians.
