Ministry of Housing and Social Development Reverses Decision to Restrict Health Coverage for People with Disabilities

MEDIA RELEASE

The BC Coalition of People with Disabilities is pleased that the Medical Services Only (MSO) health coverage restrictions recently introduced by the Ministry of Housing and Social Development (MHSD) have been reversed after concerns were raised by the community. These health coverage restrictions affected seniors with disabilities in particular.

On April 1st, 2010 MHSD introduced restrictions that limited Medical Services Only coverage for seniors with disabilities leaving provincial assistance and going onto federal pensions, and people leaving provincial assistance for Canada Pension Plan-Disability benefits. Health coverage for these groups was restricted to a period of one year only. As of April 30th, 2010 this one year restriction has been removed and people will continue to be eligible for Medical Services Only as long as they qualify for the Guaranteed Income Supplement or Canada Pension Plan benefits.

The BCCPD is pleased that vulnerable populations can continue to access the Medical Services Only benefit. However, other changes introduced by MHSD on April 1st, 2010 are still in effect. These changes include restrictions to medical equipment and supplies such as the removal of payment for prefabricated orthotics and limits on the amount of money MHSD will pay for a motorized scooter and other equipment.

For more information:

Please contact the Advocacy Access Program at 604-872-1278 or 1-800-663-1278.