Last bills mark end of Medical Services Premiums in B.C.

Photo: CTV News

There will be one less bill for British Columbians to worry about in the new year.

The last Medical services Plan bills will be sent out in December as B.C. joins the rest of the country by not charging for medical services.

"The cost of health care should not be a burden on people, but for too long, unfair MSP premiums made it hard to get ahead," said Premier John Horgan. "Our government is making different choices and we're working to make life more affordable for people in B.C. This represents one of the largest middle-class tax cuts in B.C.'s history and will make a big difference in people's lives."

The government estimates individuals will save up to $900 a year, and families will save up to $1,800.
It's a net tax cut of about $800 million, the province said.

Finance Minister Carole James said not having to pay premiums will free up money for residents of B.C. to spend on food, rent and child care.
"Families have more money for themselves and to invest in B.C. businesses," she said.

MSP beneficiaries who have auto-payments through their financial institutions are reminded to cancel that arrangement to ensure payments to the Province do not continue.