BC Healthy Kids Program

Helps low-income families with costs associated with basic dental care and prescription glasses for their children.

Dependant children under 19 years of age, in families approved for premium assistance by the Medical Services Plan (MSP) through the Ministry of Health, are automatically registered with the Healthy Kids Program.

Coverage includes:

• Dental: Children are eligible for $1,400 of basic dental services per 2 year period. This coverage includes services such as exams, x-rays, fillings, cleanings and extractions. Dentists can advise families of other services that might be available.
• Optical: Children are eligible for prescription eyeglasses (lenses and basic frames) once in a twelve month period. Children's eye examinations are covered by MSP.

Before any dental or optical services begin, families need to show their child's BC CareCard to their dentist or eye specialist who will confirm the child's eligibility under the Healthy Kids Program.

Prior to the appointment for dental or vision care, it is also important that parents talk to the professional's office regarding the level of coverage and the portion parents will be expected to pay.

The Province pays dentists and eye specialists directly for the services children receive.

Additional charges over and above what the Healthy Kids Program will cover are the responsibility of the family.

For more information, call the Ministry of Social Development Information Line.