Information on submitting lab referrals for diagnostic and screening purposes:
The Medical Services Plan (MSP) is British Columbia’s publicly funded health insurance program which provides coverage for medical services by physicians and other health care practitioners for eligible BC residents.
A regulatory change approved by government October 1, 2011 authorizes RN(C) to independently refer eligible MSP beneficiaries for select laboratory tests. These tests are outlined within the certified practice decision support tools (DSTs) and are approved by the College of Registered Nurses of British Columbia (CRNBC).
As of January 2012, in collaboration with the employer and after obtaining a MSP practitioner number, RN(C) can independently refer clients for select diagnostic tests. Prior to applying for an MSP practitioner number, RN(C) should check with their employer for agency specific guidelines and processes regarding processing lab referrals and managing results. For further information regarding RN(C) – MSP Practitioner Numbers access the Resource Manual for Registered Nurses (Certified) at BC Ministry of Health – Medical Services Plan.