Health, Medical + Wellness
Taking care of your health is an important part of your success at ECU. All international students are required to have medical insurance in Canada, and there are also recommended plans that provide extended coverage. This page explains the insurance you must have, the steps to get covered and where to turn for support. If you need extra help, contact ECU International Student Advising.
The basics (with details below):
- ECU international students are auto-enrolled in temporary medical insurance (AwayCare) for their first four months.
- Within their first week of arriving, international students should apply for long-term medical insurance that will begin once their short-term insurance has terminated.
- All students are automatically enrolled in extended medical and dental coverage through Emily Carr’s Student Union.
- Other Creativity Resources on Campus
Temporary Medical Insurance (AwayCare)
All new international students are automatically enrolled in AwayCare for their first four months in Canada.
This short-term plan is in place while you apply for B.C.’s public medical insurance (B.C. MSP).
- Coverage begins September 1 for Fall semester and January 1 for Spring semester.
- If you arrive before your semester begins, contact intadvising@ecuad.ca to learn about early coverage options.
- You may opt out of AwayCare if you can show proof of equivalent coverage from another provider.
B.C. MSP (B.C. Medical Services Plan)
B.C. MSP is mandatory for all international students studying in B.C. for more than six months, and it is required for your entire time at ECU. It replaces your temporary AwayCare coverage.
- Covers the cost of basic medical care in Canada, including most physician and hospital services.
- Apply for MSP as soon as you arrive and have a local address. Processing can take up to three months, so applying early is important.
- Questions about MSP are answered in the FAQ below, or you can contact intadvising@ecuad.ca for support.
B.C. Medical Services Plan FAQs
Why do I need BC MSP?
The B.C. Medical Service Plan program covers residents of British Columbia for essential medical services provided by insured doctors. It is a mandatory provincial program required for all residents and temporary residents staying in B.C. for longer than six months.
When should I apply for BC MSP?
Apply as soon as you arrive in B.C. and have a mailing address. There is a three-month waiting period from the time you apply to when your coverage begins. For example, if you arrive on July 20 and apply immediately, you will be eligible for coverage starting in November.
How much does the B.C. MSP program cost per month?
Fees are subject to change. Check for the latest updates: MSP Fee Information.
What is covered by B.C. MSP?
By being enrolled in the program, you can see most doctors and physicians free of charge once you present your B.C. MSP card.
See the full list of benefits and services covered by MSP, as well services NOT covered by B.C. MSP.
When do I begin paying for B.C. MSP?
MSP will send you an invoice in the mail once your coverage is confirmed. You begin paying after you receive this invoice. Learn about payment options: Pay Your Premiums.
What if my information changes?
You must keep your personal information up to date. Let B.C. MSP know if you move, change your name, add a dependent, or leave B.C. Manage your account here: MSP Account Services.
Do I still need Greenshield if I already have BC MSP?
Yes. B.C. MSP is mandatory and provides basic medical coverage only. Greenshield is extended health insurance that covers additional services MSP does not cover or only partially covers, such as prescriptions, dental, and vision care. Together, MSP and Greenshield provide more complete coverage.
How do I contact Health Insurance BC?
To contact Health Insurance BC for Medical Services Plan (MSP) inquiries:
- Call 1-604-683-7151 from the Lower Mainland
- Call 1-800-663-7100 from elsewhere in B.C.
- Email mspenquiries@hibc.gov.bc.ca for general inquiries
- Send documents to PO Box 9035 Stn Prov Govt, Victoria, B.C. V8W 9E3.
Greenshield Health + Dental (ECSU)
The Emily Carr Students’ Union (ECSU) provides extended medical and dental coverage through Greenshield. This plan covers services not included in B.C. MSP, such as:
- Prescription medication + extended health benefits
- Dental services + vision care
The cost of Greenshield is automatically included in tuition for Fall + Spring intake. Greenshield coverage is not availble for students beginning in the Summer semester. Students may opt out if they have equivalent extended coverage (deadline applies).