Medical Insurance

All residents of British Columbia are required to have valid medical insurance coverage to ensure protection in case of illness or accident, as mandated by the provincial government. The British Columbia Medical Services Plan (BC MSP) is the provincial healthcare provider offering coverage to residents.

New (and returning) residents must complete a waiting period before their MSP coverage begins. This waiting period includes the remainder of the month in which they establish residence in British Columbia, plus an additional two months. The Ministry of Health determines the official start of residency based on several factors.

For further details, visit the Coverage Wait Period – Province of British Columbia.

If you are moving here from another province

If you are relocating to British Columbia from another province, ensure that you maintain coverage with your current healthcare provider until your BC MSP coverage begins. This will help ensure continuous healthcare protection during the transition period.

If you are an international student

All international students studying on a permit in B.C. for six months or more are required to enroll in the province’s Medical Services Plan (MSP), as mandated by the provincial government. We recommend that you apply for MSP as soon as you arrive in British Columbia, as coverage may take some time to begin.

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While waiting for MSP coverage, many new international students choose GuardMe, a private insurance provider that offers temporary coverage designed specifically for international students.

You can apply for GuardMe directly on their website. If you need assistance with your application, our Health and Wellness Consultant is available to help.

Questions?

Whether you’re an international or domestic student, book an appointment with our Health and Wellness Consultant is here to assist you.

Coquitlam College has a Health and Wellness Consultant and a Counsellor available Monday to Friday. You can reach our Health and Wellness Consultant or our Counsellor via email to arrange an in person or phone consultation with them.

Susan Patterson
Health & Wellness Consultant
Office Hours:
Monday to Thursday: 10 AM – 2 PM
Friday: 9:30 AM – 1:30 PM
Contact: Email | 604-939-6633