Health & Safety
Medical Insurance, Health & Safety Support
Committing to higher education is an investment for a better future and a financial undertaking. At Metropolitan Community College, we understand the situation and are here to help you achieve your academic goal by providing financial assistance opportunities such as scholarships and bursaries.
Listed below are currently available scholarships and bursaries to students, offered by Metropolitan Community College. All applications for scholarships and bursaries should be submitted before or together with the applications for admission. Up to one (1) scholarship or bursary per eligible student is allowed.
Medical Insurance for Newcomer Students
All international students in British Columbia are required to have valid medical insurance coverage. It ensures access to essential health services and protection against unexpected medical expenses during your studies. Before you become eligible for the Government of British Columbia's public health insurance plan, you need to obtain your own medical insurance in the first 90 days of arrival in Canada.
You may choose your own insurance provider or explore options in a local service provider, GuardMe, which provides various options to newcomers. To learn more, please check out their website https://guard.me/en.html and contact them directly.
BC Medical Service Plan (MSP)
The Medical Services Plan (MSP) is the province’s health insurance program that provides essential medical coverage for residents, including international students. All students staying in British Columbia for more than six months are required to enroll in MSP to access necessary healthcare services, including doctor visits, hospital care, and diagnostic services.
What Does MSP Cover?
Once enrolled, MSP provides the following essential health services:
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Doctor Visits and Primary Care
MSP covers regular visits to general practitioners (family doctors) and other primary care providers. -
Hospital Services
MSP provides coverage for medically necessary services, including surgeries, hospital stays, and specialist visits when referred by a doctor. -
Diagnostic Services
Coverage includes medically necessary diagnostic tests like X-rays, ultrasounds, and lab tests.
Additional Services (Not Covered by MSP):
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Prescription drugs (except for specific cases)
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Dental care
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Vision care (eye exams and glasses)
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Physiotherapy, chiropractic, and other paramedical services
Note: For non-covered services like dental and vision care, students often opt for Extended Health Insurance to ensure more comprehensive healthcare access.
How to Apply for MSP
Applying for MSP is straightforward, but it’s essential to start the process soon after arrival in British Columbia. Here’s how to get enrolled:
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Submit Your Application: Complete the MSP application form online through the BC government website. You will need your study permit and other personal identification details.
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Wait for Processing: There is a waiting period of up to three months from your application date, during which you may need temporary private insurance.
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Receive Your BC Services Card: Once enrolled, you’ll receive a BC Services Card, which will be needed to access healthcare services covered by MSP.
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Monthly Premium: International students are typically required to pay a monthly premium for MSP, which is approximately $75 per month. Ensure that your payments are set up as per the plan’s requirements
Why MSP Is Essential for International Students
MSP is not only mandatory but also offers essential benefits to help you maintain your health throughout your studies in British Columbia:
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Access to Essential Medical Services: Ensures you can see a doctor or visit a hospital when needed, without worrying about high out-of-pocket costs.
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Peace of Mind: MSP coverage allows students to focus on their academic journey, knowing that they have access to necessary health services.
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Ease of Use: MSP is widely accepted throughout British Columbia, making it convenient to access healthcare services almost anywhere in the province.
Mental Health and Wellness
We prioritize the mental well-being of students with accessible and confidential support services.
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Students have access to the Here2Talk program offered by the Government of British Columbia, ensuring that counseling services are readily available to promote a healthy and supportive learning environment.
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Workshops and Wellness Activities: Regular sessions on stress management, mindfulness, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance are organized to promote mental health.
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Personalized Support for Your Unique Needs: Simply Counselling provides personalized support to help you overcome personal and academic challenges. Its professional counselors offer one-on-one sessions that focus on your individual needs, helping you develop coping strategies, build resilience, and enhance your overall well-being.
Addictions and Overdose
We understand the challenges that international students may face when adjusting to a new environment, culture, and academic life. Your well-being is our priority, and we offer a range of support services to ensure you have the resources you need to thrive.
Naloxone Kits for Opioid Overdose Prevention
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Naloxone kits are available at our campus to address opioid-related emergencies.
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Students can request a kit discreetly at the front desk, where trained staff can also provide instructions on how to use it.
Health and Safety Officer Support
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Students can directly contact the front desk or email us for assistance with addiction concerns or opioid-related issues.
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Our Student Support Team will discuss with you discreetly and try to help you with available external information and resources for recovery and crisis management.
Community Referrals
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For students requiring specialized care, we provide referrals to trusted local organizations, addiction recovery centers, and healthcare providers.
Emergency Contacts
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Local Emergency Numbers: To reach police, fire, and ambulance services in emergencies (dial 911 in Canada).
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On-Campus Security: Our campus is located in a secure commercial premise with security services provided by third-party contractors. Entrance to the campus is restricted with passcode protection to ensure security. Students are provided with a passcode to access the campus. Our Student Support team is available to assist students with safety concerns or emergencies.