Medical Transportation Supplement

What it is

Covers travel to essential medical treatment — services under the Medicare Protection Act or Hospital Insurance Act with a medical practitioner, nurse practitioner, specialist or hospital. Meal allowances are normally NOT provided as part of a medical transportation supplement; in exceptional circumstances the ministry may issue up to $8 per meal. Escort costs are covered where an escort is required, including for children and for adults who are medically incapable of travelling alone. The rates come from the Health Supplements and Programs Rate Table (effective August 1, 2023): https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/governments/policies-for-government/bcea-policy-and-procedure-manual/bc-employment-and-assistance-rate-tables/health-supplements-and-programs-rate-table

Who it is for

Ask for pre-approval before you travel. The ministry can consider a request afterwards in exceptional circumstances where you could not get funding beforehand, but do not count on it. Ambulance bills and the cost to buy, maintain, repair or insure a vehicle are not covered, and neither are trips for non-essential services.

Amount or value

$0.36 per kilometre by private vehicle, plus bus, ferry, air or train fares, accommodation for overnight travel, and an escort where required

At a glance

Difficulty

Easy

Application

Travel request + medical confirmation

Decision timing

Ask before arranging travel

How to apply

1. Open the official program page and review the current eligibility rules, dates and application method.
2. Gather the documents named on the official application page; requirements can change.
3. Apply through the official link below, then keep a copy or confirmation number for follow-up.