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The Advice Centre

No employer benefits? No problem

Tuesday, Jun 10, 2025

Stay protected with flexible health and dental coverage built for life between jobs – or gigs.

Stay protected with flexible health and dental coverage built for life between jobs – or gigs.

Whether you’re drawn to the freedom of setting your own hours or picking up work between jobs to earn extra income, gig work can bring exciting new experiences every day. The last thing you should have to worry about is your health insurance.

At Pacific Blue Cross, we understand that flexibility matters – not just in your work, but in your coverage too. That’s why we’ve redesigned our Personal Health and Dental plan to give you more choice than ever. Now, you can find a personal health plan that fits your lifestyle, health needs, and budget. Whether you’re just starting out in freelance work or navigating your next career move, we’ve got you covered.

Why do you need insurance?

If you’re a freelance coder, graphic designer, app-based driver, or delivery worker, gig work often comes with more risk than a traditional job. With less financial stability, limited job security, and greater exposure to health and safety concerns, personal health insurance isn’t just helpful – it can be essential.

Unlike full-time roles that often include extended health benefits, gig workers usually need to cover these gaps themselves. That’s where Pacific Blue Cross comes in – with coverage that’s affordable and comprehensive. Need more mental health support for a high-stress contract? Want to book bi-weekly massage therapy appointments after long hours at your desk? You can customize your plan to match your needs. You can even opt out of dental coverage if you’re only looking for health insurance right now.

What does MSP cover?

If you’re generally healthy, you might think private health insurance isn’t necessary and consider saving for unexpected health issues instead. But it’s important to know that the Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC may not cover as much as you think.

MSP covers essential services like doctor visits, hospital procedures and diagnostic tests such as x-rays, but doesn’t include routine dental care, eye exams, or most prescription drugs. These out-of-pocket costs can add up quickly, especially if you’re also missing work and income while receiving treatment or recovering.

Comprehensive, flexible coverage levels

Short on time? With the new Pacific Blue Cross Plan Finder, it’s easier than ever to explore your options. In just a few clicks, you can find a personal health plan that fits your lifestyle – supporting the ever-changing ways British Columbians live and work.

Answer six quick questions about yourself and our plan finder will instantly pick out the three most suitable options for you – with the choice between most affordable, most popular, and most coverage.

Not sure where to start? Here’s a quick overview of each level of coverage offered through the redesigned Pacific Blue Cross Health and Dental plan.

Bronze

Well-rounded coverage for practitioners, prescription drugs, vision, and mental wellness, with new flexibility to include or waive Prescription coverage and Dental.

Perfect for:

  • Recent grads
  • Self-employed, contract or part-time workers

Silver

Comprehensive coverage for practitioners, prescription drugs, vision, and mental wellness, with more flexibility to waive Dental to meet an individual’s need.

Perfect for:

  • Couples
  • Families

Gold

Best-in-market coverage for practitioners, prescription drugs, and vision with enhanced mental wellness coverage, and no waiting period for basic dental. Plus, the first personal health plan in Canada to feature a Family Planning benefit.

Perfect for:

  • Anyone looking for the most personal health coverage
  • Individuals and couples looking to build their family

More reasons to choose our Health and Dental plan:

  • Flexibility and choice: Annual plan upgrades without medical review, if existing coverage includes prescription drugs.
  • Travel and Life insurance: Enjoy peace of mind with Travel and Life Insurance included across all plan levels.

What’s next?

Protect yourself from the unexpected. Find a health plan in minutes with the Pacific Blue Cross Plan Finder.