Drug coverage - how does it work?
 

I have been in Vancouver for 3 months now. My employer provides extended health coverage for dental, vision and drugs.

So far we haven't had to visit a doctor but my daughter has asthma and we'll need to get a prescription filled next month. I just saw the previous thread about this and it made me realise I don't have a clue what to do about any of the medical process here.

We have our MSBC cards but what so we do and how so we show we have extended coverage? Will there be anything to pay? Employer also pays monthly MSBC premium.

Thanks in advance!

Re: Drug coverage - how does it work?
 

The amount you pay will depend on the extended coverage rules/terms. Some employers cover 100% but usually it's about 80% with you having to pay the balance. My employer issued a card for the extended coverage and my druggist used the information on it to electronically bill the provider directly and as I have 100% coverage, there's nothing to pay. Your MSBC card, AFAIK, would not come into such a transaction because, at least in Ontario, the Prov.Gov't doesn't cover drug costs for most people.

Re: Drug coverage - how does it work?
 

First your daughter needs a prescription. If you have a GP then visit them to get the prescription. If you don't then you will need to go to a walk-in clinic and be prepared to wait your turn. Your daughter will need her MSP card for free service with the GP/clinic.

Once you have the prescription take it to a drug store to be filled. Your daughter will be asked for her MSP number. What you will/will not have to pay depends on the terms of your extended health plan. If they gave you a card with the plan it is likely that the drug store can bill the insurance company directly and all you will pay is the co-pay amount, if any. For some extended health schemes you pay the full cost of the drugs and claim the insured portion back from the insurance company later.

You should have been given a booklet for the extended health scheme which explains how to do this. If not, talk to your HR people.

Re: Drug coverage - how does it work?
 

not sure how MSBC works but my Manulife card as a drug plan number on it that is used my the dispensing pharmacist. My employer covers 90% and I pay the remaining 10%. Also be careful where you get your prescriptions from as some plans limit the dispensing fee.

Re: Drug coverage - how does it work?
 

And adding to this, don't forget to keep any receipts from where you have had to pay for medications (prescription) - you can claim it on your tax return.

:)

Re: Drug coverage - how does it work?
 

Thanks everyone! Really useful. I have got the card now and the online policy booklet from HR so good to go.

Re: Drug coverage - how does it work?
 

It's dead easy- once you us a regular pharmacy, things will be sorted out of your sight- very smooth. Just carry your care card with you at all times - just incase you need emergency or urgent treatment, otherwise you will get hefty bills which can be refuted once you eventually show you have a valid card but it is a hassle.

Re: Drug coverage - how does it work?
 

I literally just renewed my UK prescriptions this week, went to a walk in clinic and saw the doctor who was happy to write the scripts. Went to the pharmacy and got them dispensed, i paid and then claimed the money back. My company cover is with Blue cross, i used their app took a pic of the pharmacy receipt and filled in my details. The money was popped back into my account within 2days, minus the $50 yearly deductible.

Re: Drug coverage - how does it work?
 

Glad it went well. It often shocks people how much they charge for some meds- you get to see the price of these meds but at least you get to claim it back speedily from Blue Cross. Slightly costlier than the £8.40 NHS prescription for three months supply in the UK!

Re: Drug coverage - how does it work?
 

i actually couldn't believe the cost of meds tbh. I take a migraine medication that cost $20 per tablet here :ohms: so grateful I'm fully covered.