Publicly Subsidized or Private Pay Services

In BC, there are a range of care and support options for people having difficulty coping with activities of daily living because of health-related problems or a life-threatening illness available from both publicly subsidized and private pay service providers.

Publicly Subsidized Home and Community Care Services:

• Are accessed through the health authority;
• Are accessed by the individual/representative who meets general provincial eligibility criteria and agrees to participate in a formal assessment that is conducted by their health  authority and are assessed as having needs that can be met by the services;
• Are subsidized by the Ministry of Health and administered and delivered by the health authorities and other contracted providers; and
• While individual preference for service is considered, the individual’s need as determined by a formal assessment is the primary consideration in determining which service is provided.

 Private Pay Services:

• Are accessed by the individual directly from the service provider;
• Each individual can shop and compare for services that best meet their needs and preferences;
• All aspects of service provision are agreed to by the individual and the service provider; and
• Government does not provide any financial assistance to individuals or service providers for the service.

Quality and Safety

For more information about health, safety and quality of care for home and community care services, go to:

• Accountability