Welcome to iMED
Health Insurance for
New International
Students at UBC
Welcome to iMED Health Insurance for New International Students at UBC
iMED is temporary hospital and medical insurance provided by UBC on a mandatory basis to new UBC international students, either for the waiting period before you become eligible for BC Medical Services Plan (MSP) — or for the duration of your study term if your UBC program is less than six months.
Your health and well-being are extremely important. If you suffer a sickness or injury, the most important thing is for you to get the proper medical attention. Without health insurance, the cost of medical services in Canada could limit your access to medical care or leave you with a large debt to pay. With iMED, you can rest at ease knowing that you are well covered.
The insurance companies: DCIS and MSH
David Cummings Insurance Services Ltd. (DCIS) administers iMED enrolment, supports plan members for successful use of their insurance, and offers other medical insurance options for students (and non-students) who do not get iMED.
MSH is the claims administrator that provides 24/7 Emergency Assistance, pre-authorizes medical services, and processes and pays claims.
How do I know if I have iMED?
New international students are automatically enrolled for iMED as a result of registering for on-campus (in-person) classes. After you register for your first on-campus class at UBC, check your Workday Account Activity to confirm you have been charged for iMED. DCIS emails a personalized iMED Card to each plan member.
Learn about EnrolmentWhen does iMED cover me?
Default coverage dates are set by UBC according to your first term and program type and will show on the iMED Card emailed to you by DCIS. You may need to change or add to your default coverage dates depending on when you arrive in BC, Canada.
Learn about Coverage DatesCan my family members get coverage?
You may purchase iMED coverage for an eligible spouse or partner and/or dependent children who will reside in Canada with you during your UBC study term.
Learn about Adding Family to iMEDWhat does iMED cover?
iMED is comprehensive medical expense coverage for hospitalization and out-patient medical services needed to treat sickness and injury. iMED also covers most medically necessary Routine Care for a pre-existing medical condition, and includes a maternity care benefit. As with all health plans there are certain exclusions, benefit limits, and conditions. For the full coverage details please refer to the policy wording applicable to your iMED policy.
Learn about iMED coverageWhat if I need medical care?
Medical facilities in the iMED Direct Billing Network will bill your eligible medical expenses directly to MSH (the iMED claim administrator) if you present an active iMED Card. At most other out-patient clinics expect to pay up front before seeing a doctor or health practitioner.
Free Virtual Doctor Visits with Maple
During your iMED coverage period you can get free virtual doctor consultation by signing up for the Maple virtual care app at getmaple.ca/msh.
Hospital and Emergency Room care is reserved for serious medical emergencies that cannot be safely treated at an out-patient clinic or by virtual doctor consultation. If seeking treatment at a hospital, bring your iMED Card and a copy of your study permit (if you have one) to show at the admission desk.
How do I make a claim?
Knowing the essential claim documentation requirements is key to making successful claims, and there are important actions to take while at a hospital or medical clinic that will make your claims process go smoother and faster.
Learn about Making ClaimsWhat if I do not qualify for iMED but need medical insurance?
DCIS is an insurance brokerage specializing in health insurance and has plans for students who are Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or returning international students, and for non-students.
Contact DCIShere for you.
