In a decision that may have far-reaching implications for the expansion of private health care in B.C. and Canada, a private medical clinic in Vancouver has been cleared of allegations that it violated federal and provincial laws.

Heath Minister George Abbott says the Copeman Healthcare Centre is not breaking the law with its annual fee.
(CBC)

In a decision released Wednesday, the B.C. Medical Services Commission concluded that the Copeman Healthcare Centre is not breaking the law by charging for private medical care even though patients pay an annual service fee.

Last year, Health Minister George Abbott said it appeared the medical centre might be violating federal laws that guarantee universal access to medically necessary services and asked the Medical Services Commission to investigate.

But now, 20 months later, Abbott said the commission has concluded the clinic is not breaking the law.

"The Copeman centre is not providing expedited access through those fees," Abbott said Wednesday in Victoria.

The centre opened in November 2005 and promised patients the most advanced programs of preventive health care available in the world. But there's a price tag of $3,900 per person the first year, and $2,900 in subsequent years.

The Copeman Healthcare Centre opened in November 2005, promising patients the most advanced programs of preventive health care.
(CBC)

Originally the clinic had a one-time enrolment fee as well, but Abbott ruled it was a violation of the Canada Health Act in February 2006. The clinic then rolled the enrolment fee into the first year's annual dues.

NDP health critic Adrian Dix said Wednesday's announcement is not good for public health care in B.C.

"We do not have a government that is going to protect us from extra billing," Dix said.

Meanwhile, Don Copeman said he still has plans to expand his business to up to 40 clinic across Canada, and to offer what his website describes as "simply better health care."

The Medical Services Commission, which issued the ruling, is a nine-member statutory body made up of three representatives from government, three representatives from the B.C. Medical Association and three members from the public, according the provincial health ministry.

The commission's responsibility is to ensure that all B.C. residents have reasonable access to medical care and to manage the provision and payment of medical services in an effective and cost-efficient manner.