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In B.C., those living in our poorest communities are between 24 per cent and 91 per cent more likely to die early from chronic diseases such as cancer, respiratory diseases, circulatory diseases and diabetes, depending on the disease.

We know that without adequate income, the 550,000 British Columbians experiencing poverty don’t get an opportunity to make healthy choices for themselves or their families. We also know that people who have disabilities or are ill are more likely to live below the poverty line which can worsen their condition.

What we don’t know is if a basic income would change that or what it would cost. But B.C. is on the cusp of finding out. An expert committee is considering the feasibility of a basic income. Its members are consulting with individuals and organizations until March 15on a potential pilot project and how our income assistance programs might be improved.

The fact that B.C. is considering a basic income pilot project shows there is an interest in looking at new models to help break the cycle of poverty, as well as ways to tackle the challenges faced by those with visible and invisible disabilities. Any model that reduces deep poverty will also benefit our healthcare system.

The direct healthcare costs associated with chronic diseases have been estimated to be as much as 80 per cent of B.C.’s Medical Services Plan, PharmaCare and acute care budgets. To put this in context, it’s important to note that healthcare is the single largest line item in the provincial budget.