Cars on the crosshatches are a sure sign of summer in the Cove. As tourist season swings into gear, keen-eyed islanders are keeping a look out for cars budding in line.
However, there is one crosshatched section that can create some confusion: the medical assured loading section in front of the General Store.
There have been some changes to the medical assured loading program since the pandemic began, so here’s a refresher, courtesy of the Caring Circle website:
Who’s eligible for medical assured loading? People on their way to medical specialist services whose medical practitioners have said that extended waits at the ferry terminal could be a risk to their health (For example, undergoing certain kinds of cancer treatment). You must have a completed provincial Travel Assistance Program (TAP) form with an MSP confirmation number and a letter from the medical practitioner.
What to do in Horseshoe Bay? Get to the ticket booth at least 30 minutes before departure time and have both the letter from your medical practitioner and your TAP form ready; show the ticket agent.
What to do on Bowen Island? First, you need to get your medical assured loading cards. Bring your letter from your medical practitioner to municipal hall at the end of Artisan Lane. They’ll give you two MAL cards, which you’ll put on your front and rear windows. Then, when you’re set to go, there’s a medical assured loading section in front of the General Store. If folks approach you, coming to let you know that there’s no parking in the crosshatches, kindly tell them you’re there for medical assured loading.
Medical Assured Loading cards are available at Bowen Island Municipality. By Submitted
What’s TAP? Ferry costs for certain kinds of medical services are covered under the Travel Assistance Program. This includes: non-emergency medical specialist services, diagnostic procedures, laboratory procedures, diagnostic radiology, nuclear medicine procedures, BC Cancer Agency, Transplant Units, HIV/AIDS treatment at St. Paul’s Hospital, specialty clinics at BC Children’s Hospital and other tertiary care hospital services. To find out more about TAP and what’s included and excluded, visit: gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/accessing-health-care/tap-bc/travel-assistance-program-tap-bc.
