Some home and community care services are provided free of charge. Other services include a fee, which is determined by your income.
These services are provided for free:
These services may charge a fee:
Acquired brain injury services
Home support services: There may be a daily charge, depending on your income.
Individual tenants pay a monthly fee based on 70% of your after-tax income, with a set minimum and maximum amount. The cost covers monthly rental accommodation, hospitality services (e.g. meals, housekeeping) and personal care. Couples living together pay up to 70% of their combined after tax income. There are pre-established rates for clients on income assistance and disability benefits.
You may be required to pay other fees for services not covered in the monthly rate based on your personal choices, including telephone, cable, hydro, household and toiletry supplies, medications, personal care supplies and insurance costs. Some facilities also require a damage deposit upon move-in.
You will be told about all fees before you move in. You make these payments to the assisted living operator each month, along with a small BC Hydro surcharge. Visit the Assisted living page for more information about this service.
You will be charged a daily rate for convalescent care. If you are unable to afford this fee, your financial situation can be assessed to see if you qualify for a temporary rate reduction. Visit the Convalescent care page for more information about this service.
You will be charged a daily rate for hospice care. If you are unable to afford this fee, your financial situation can be assessed to see if you qualify for a temporary rate reduction. There is no charge for most hospice palliative care services in your home such as nursing care and supplies, personal care, and equipment.
The BC Palliative Care Benefits Program will cover the assessment for palliative care supplies, cost of medications essential for your comfort, as well as access to equipment. A doctor must refer you to the program.
Visit the Hospice palliative care section for more information about this service.
Publicly-subsidized long-term care costs a monthly fee based on 80% of your after-tax income, with set minimum and maximum rates. As long-term care is considered your home, you may be required to pay additional fees for services or items you would pay for living on your own. For example, there may be additional fees for things like equipment or aids, optional activities, and hairdressing services. You will be told about all fees before you move in. Visit the long-term care section for more information about this service.
The home and community care service costs will vary depending upon your individual situation. For example, you may be entitled to benefits through other sources (e.g. extended health benefits, Veterans Affairs Canada) or you may have unusual expenses and be eligible for a temporary rate reduction. It is important to work with your health care professional to get an accurate assessment of your unique situation.
Costs may change over time. Call the Home and community care access line in your community for current costs.