The unique health care needs of the self-employed

So, you took the leap and started your very own business or you’re working on contract, or maybe you’re about to enter retirement—if you’re on any one of these paths, you may be one of the many of British Columbians without extended health care benefits through your employer.

We understand that you want to protect yourself and your family, and it can be confusing wading through information about health care insurance. To help you determine what’s best for you and your loved ones, we're debunking three common misconceptions about health care insurance.

“The only way to get insurance coverage for health care
is through the government or an employer.”

In BC, you can get health care coverage though BC Medical Services Plan (MSP), Employer Benefits or Personal Health Insurance. Through MSP, BC residents are covered for medically-necessary insured doctor services.¹ If you don’t receive health care benefits through an employer, obtaining Personal Health Insurance may cover you and your family for the many health care costs not covered by MSP. Personal Health Insurance may be suitable for individuals who do not have employer benefits and fall into any of these categories:

• Retirees
• Part-time employees
• Contract workers
• Professionals
• Self-employed
• Employees who have an employer group insurance that’s ending

"The government will cover all my health care needs."

While MSP covers the most basic needs, it doesn’t cover everything, including prescription drugs, services by specialists and therapists such as acupuncture, chiropractic or physical therapy, routine eye exams (19-64 years of age) and more.² Many routine dental care expenses like check-ups, fillings, cleanings, scaling, x-rays and extractions are also not covered by MSP. Without extended health and dental insurance through an employer or Personal Health Insurance, you’d have to pay for these expenses out of your own pocket.

"Health care insurance is expensive."

There are many different health and dental care plans available for you to choose from that can fit your needs and budget.

To learn more about BCAA Health & Dental Insurance visit bcaa.com/health.