This glossary was created with input from members of PICNet, PHAC Infection Control Guidelines and the BC Ministry of Health. A list of references is available here. Definitions will be updated frequently and may change or be removed. Please send us your comments and feedback by email to picnet@phsa.ca.

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Medical Health Officer(MHO): a medical practitioner with training, knowledge, skills and experience in community medicine who is designated to this position by the Lieutenant Governor of BC under the Public Health Act. The MHO provides advice and direction on public health issues including health promotion and health protection and their related practices, bylaws and policies. The MHO reports to the public those matters which are deemed to be in the public interest. (3)

Medical Services Commission (MSC): Facilitates reasonable access, throughout British Columbia, to quality medical care, health care and diagnostic facility services for residents of British Columbia under the Medical Services Plan (MSP). It’s responsible for managing the provision and payment of medical services through the MSP on behalf of the Government of British Columbia. The MSC is accountable to Government through the Minister of Health Services (4).

Medical Services Plan (MSP): A Ministry of Health Services program offering universal health care coverage for BC residents (3).