BC Coalition of People with Disabilities (BCCPD)
Community Update
Changes to Medical Services Only (MSO) coverage for people receiving
the Persons with Disabilities benefit (PWD)
On March 3rd 2014, the Ministry of Social Development and Social Innovation (MSDSI) announced an amendment to the regulations governing eligibility for Medical Services Only (MSO) coverage. The change means that more PWD recipients will be able to keep their MSDI funded medical coverage.
Prior to the March 3rd amendment, PWD recipients who stopped receiving benefits could only keep their MSDI funded medical coverage in certain situations; the three major being: when individuals turned 65; started receiving Canada Pension Plan Disability (CPP-D) benefits; or returned to work. Individuals who received a lump-sum family maintenance payment and were no longer eligible to receive PWD would lose their medical coverage.
Effective March 3rd, PWD recipients who receive a lump-sum family maintenance payment will continue to be eligible for MSDI funded medical coverage.
People with MSO coverage have their Medical Services Plan (MSP), Pharmacare, and Schedule C (MSDI funded medical goods and services – with the exception of diet supplements) covered by the Ministry.
If you need more information or have questions about this change, please contact Robin Loxton at 604-872-1278 or 1-800-663-1278.
