Does MSP Cover Naturopaths in BC? Who Qualifies & What It Pays

Does BC Medical Cover Naturopaths?

For many British Columbians considering naturopathic care, a common question is: Does BC Medical (MSP) cover naturopathic doctor visits? The answer depends entirely on your eligibility for MSP’s Supplementary Benefits program.

At Noble Naturopathic, we believe in transparency when it comes to healthcare costs. This post explains who is covered, how much MSP pays, and what it means if your practitioner is “opted-out.” We’ll also share how our clinic works to keep naturopathic care accessible, even for those without coverage.

Does MSP Cover Naturopathic Visits for Everyone?

No. MSP does not routinely cover naturopathic visits for the general public. Coverage is available only for certain groups through the Supplementary Benefits program.

Who Qualifies for MSP Supplementary Benefits?

You may be eligible if you fall into one of these categories:

• Those who have applied and been deemed eligible based on annual net income
• Income Assistance recipients
• Convention refugees
• Inmates of B.C. Correctional Facilities
• Individuals enrolled through the At Home Program
• Residents of long-term care facilities receiving the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS)
• Individuals enrolled as Mental Health Clients under MSP
• First Nations individuals with valid B.C. Medical Plan coverage through the First Nations Health Authority

How Much Does MSP Pay for Naturopathic Visits?

For eligible individuals, MSP contributes:

• $23 per visit
• Up to a combined annual limit of 10 visits per calendar year
• The 10-visit maximum is shared across all supplementary benefit services, which include:
  • Naturopathy
  • Acupuncture
  • Chiropractic
  • Massage therapy
  • Physical therapy
  • Non-surgical podiatry

Note: MSP supplementary benefits apply only to services received within British Columbia and are limited by the province’s Payment Schedule.

What Does “Opted-Out” Mean?

Many supplementary benefits practitioners choose to opt out of MSP.

If your practitioner is opted-out:

• They may charge more than the MSP Payment Schedule rate
• They must inform you before treatment of:
  • Their opted-out status
  • The $23 MSP reimbursement amount
  • Your total out-of-pocket cost after MSP reimbursement

This ensures you can make an informed decision about your care before proceeding.

Extended Health Coverage and Noble Naturopathic

Even if you don’t qualify for MSP Supplementary Benefits, most extended health insurance plans do cover naturopathic visits.

At Noble Naturopathic, we:

• Offer direct billing to most major insurers
• Register quickly with new insurance billing portals so patients can claim benefits easily
• Keep costs reasonable through:
  • Hybrid (virtual + in-person) appointments
  • Shorter, lower-cost consult options
  • Affordable injection therapies

Bottom Line

While MSP coverage for naturopathic services is limited to specific groups under the Supplementary Benefits program, many British Columbians still have access to care through extended health benefits. At Noble Naturopathic, we are committed to keeping our services accessible, transparent, and patient-focused, regardless of your insurance status.

– Dr. David Duizer ND