More health benefits available to Ukrainian migrants

October 22, 2022

By BC Gov News |

Ukrainians arriving in B.C. with a Canada-Ukraine authorization for emergency travel (CUAET) will benefit from a more affordable process for the federally mandated medical examination.

As of Oct. 1, 2022, the Ministry of Health began managing payment for the medical diagnostic testing, including chest X-ray and blood tests, that Ukrainians under CUAET may need to complete within 90 days of arrival in British Columbia.

“Our government continues to assist Ukrainians arriving in B.C. to make sure they have the supports they need, especially around health-care services,” said Adrian Dix, Minister of Health. “This new benefit means one less thing to worry about when they start their new lives in our province.”

To be eligible, individuals must be enrolled in the Medical Services Plan (MSP) and have approved CUAET documentation. This means that people will not be billed for completing the required testing.

“Ukrainians arriving in British Columbia have been incredibly courageous as they’ve endured unimaginable uncertainty in their pursuit of health and safety,” said Nathan Cullen, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Minister Responsible for Immigration. “The mandated medical examination tests can be costly, and this coverage relieves one additional pressure point for Ukrainians as they focus on rebuilding their lives here in British Columbia.”