⚠ Important Information
- Clinics must transition from the PPN before September 4, 2026, or they risk service disruptions and losing access to clinical systems.
- Transitioning from the PPN isn’t as simple as buying internet service. New networks must be properly configured with the required security measures to protect against cyber threats and privacy breaches.
What's Happening
Doctors of BC (DoBC) and the Provincial Health Services Authority (PHSA), under direction from the Ministry of Health, are proceeding with the decommissioning of the Private Physician Network (PPN), with all services ending September 4, 2026.
Subscribers to the PPN should have received a Ministry of Health and Provincial Health Services Authority (PHSA) email notice dated May 6, 2026, regarding the decommissioning of the PPN.
Many clinics have already transitioned successfully to standard internet-based solutions.
If you are a subscriber to the PPN and require support:
- Please email PPNUpdates@phsa.ca with general inquiries.
- Please email PSP@doctorsofbc.ca for internet & local IT options.
What You Need to Do
- View the resources provided by PHSA here: https://www.phsa.ca/health-professionals/professional-resources/private-physician-network
Costs to Expect
- IT consulting: Free with Microserve or between $500–$1,500 with other IT support vendors
- Network Hardware: ~$3,500 (no funding available)
- Monthly internet and security software subscriptions: varies by provider
Vendor Options
- TELUS offers a bundled managed solution.
- MicroServe provides free transition support including planning your connectivity, network and security needs.
- Local providers like Nucleus Networks and other vendors are available for flexible, independent solutions.
- Clinics may also continue with their existing tech providers.
PPN Transition – Cost Comparison (TELUS vs Other Options)
| Category | TELUS Managed Solution | MicroServe + Purchased Hardware | Nucleus / Independent Vendor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost | $0 upfront (hardware bundled into contract) | ~$3,500–$4,300 | ~$3,500–$4,300 (similar to market proposals) |
| Hardware Model | Amortized over 36 months | Purchased outright | Purchased outright |
| Hardware Lifespan | 3-year contract term | 5–7 years expected useful life | 5–7 years expected useful life |
| Monthly Cost | $90 (internet only) to $295–$500 (fully managed) | Internet cost + optional IT support | Internet cost + optional IT support |
| Internet Included | ✅ Yes (bundled) | ❌ No (separate ISP required) | ❌ No (separate ISP required) |
| Firewall / Security | ✅ Included or add-on (~$10/user/month) | ✅ Purchased as hardware + subscription | ✅ Purchased as hardware + subscription |
| Wi-Fi / Network Equipment | ✅ Included (e.g., Meraki AP) | ✅ Purchased | ✅ Purchased |
| Transition Support | ✅ Included | ✅ Free via MicroServe (transition only) | ❌ Not included (paid consulting) |
| Ongoing IT Support | Limited managed service | ❌ Not included (extra cost) | ❌ Not included (extra cost) |
| Contract Commitment | 36 months | Varies | Varies |
| Flexibility | Medium (bundled, locked term) | Medium | Medium |
| Long-Term Cost Efficiency | Higher over time (continuous fees) | Lower over time (asset ownership) | Lower over time (asset ownership) |
Important Clarification
Free services referenced in communications apply only to transition support – not hardware, cybersecurity tools, or ongoing IT services.
Support
The Division does not provide technical support.
Please contact PSP at psp@doctorsofbc.ca or PHSA at ppnupdates@phsa.ca.