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A Step-by-Step Guide to MSP Supplementary Benefits for Acupuncture

Updated: Mar 14

Embarking on the path to acupuncture through MSP supplementary benefits need not feel like navigating a maze. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you find your way to coverage and care:


💡 MSP and MSP Supplementary Benefits are two separate things.


What is the difference between being enrolled in MSP and MSP Premium Assistance (Supplementary Benefits)?


In order to use health-care services in B.C, you must be enrolled in MSP. Under the Medicare Protection Act, enrolment with MSP is mandatory for all eligible residents and their dependents.


Enrolled in MSP

To be enrolled with MSP means that you can go see a doctor/go to the hospital etc and receive treatment/services covered by the government.


MSP Premium Assistance (Supplementary Benefits)

MSP supplementary benefits provide partial payment for certain medical services typically for people within a certain income bracket. MSP supplementary benefits support the following services from approved providers:

  • Acupuncture

  • Chiropractic

  • Massage Therapy

  • Naturopathy

  • Physical therapy; and

  • non-surgical podiatry


Eligibility for MSP Supplementary Benefits


Before dips into the details, ensure you qualify:

  • Resident of British Columbia as per the Medicare Protection Act.

  • Canadian citizen or permanent resident, living in Canada for the past 12 months.

  • Not exempt from income tax under any act.

  • Annual "adjusted net income" (after specific deductions) must be less than $42,000 for your family to qualify.


What MSP Supplementary Covers for Acupuncture

  • MSP Supplementary Benefits offers a flat rate of $23 per visit to approved providers.

  • There is a combined annual limit of 10 visits for services including acupuncture.

  • Coverage is within the confines of British Columbia, not beyond its lush borders.


Chung Acupuncture is an approved provider for MSP Supplementary Benefits. We provide MSP Supplementary Acupuncture Services at a lower rate to support low income families. Feel free to text us at 778 653 5853 if you'd like to learn more.


How to Apply for MSP Supplementary Benefits


Step 1: Enrolment in MSP

  • First, ensure you're enrolled in MSP.


If you haven't already, head to this site to apply for MSP first: Apply for MSP

💡 MSP and MSP Supplementary Benefits are two separate things.


Step 2: Gather necessary documents:

  • Apply online or get a printed form if you prefer the analog way.

  • Gather necessary documents:

  • Your Notice of Assessment or Reassessment from CRA.

  • Personal health numbers for you and your spouse, if applicable.

  • Your Social Insurance Number.


To download your Notice of Assessment, you can head to your MY CRA Account here:


In case you need it, we've created a handy guide here on how to navigate your CRA account online and download your most recent Notice of Assessment:



Step 3: Applying Online or by Mail


To apply online, start from this link: Apply for MSP Supplementary Benefits


In the first screen, you will want to select "No, I am already enrolled. Continue to Fair PharmaCare" to apply for Supplementary Benefits.

MSP supplementary application

Go through the screens and fill out your details and continue to apply.


To apply by mail, here is the applicable paper form to apply for the MSP Supplementary Benefits: BC Application Form for Health and Drug Coverage


  • If applying for someone else, include a Power of Attorney letter.

  • If applying by mail, send the completed form and required documents to: Health Insurance BC PO Box 9677 Stn Prov Govt Victoria BC V8W 9P7

After You Apply

  • You will receive your application result by mail.

  • Once your application is in, MSP will verify your income yearly to reassess eligibility — keep those tax filings current!

  • If you qualify, you'll be eligible to claim reimbursements for covered services from January 1 to December 31 of the qualifying year.


Assistance Through Other Programs

  • In certain categories, you might be eligible for the Healthy Kids Program, offering basic dental and optical care.

  • Fair PharmaCare can help with prescription and select medical supply costs.


If your journey through the paperwork forest leaves you lost, or if new situations arise affecting your status, don't hesitate to contact Health Insurance BC for a guide back on track:


Health Insurance BC

Lower Mainland: (604) 683-7151

Elsewhere in B.C: 1-800-663-7100


Remember, your health is a journey, not a destination, and MSP supplementary benefits are here to ensure that the route doesn’t come with unnecessary discomfort. Safe travels on your path to wellness!

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