[1][2] GSC is incorporated under a Federal Act of Parliament and regulated by the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI).

The founder, pharmacist Bill Wilkinson, and four other pharmacists created Canada's first pre-paid drug plan, and started the company as Prescription Services Inc.[4][5] GSC policies focus on prioritizing evidence-based treatments,[6][7] preventive care[8] and claims management strategies.

These policies also help to prevent fraud and ensure that provincial coverage pays when possible, while prior authorization may be required for certain treatments.

[13] As a not-for-profit, GSC either reinvests profits into the business, or into community health care initiatives across Canada.

They have supported a variety of causes linked to wellness, including homelessness,[14][15] food insecurity,[16] dentistry,[15] sex trafficking,[17] emergency service access,[18] education,[17] mobile outreach vehicles,[19] disaster relief,[20] research[21] and healthcare clinics[14] Green Shield has also participated in clinical trials designed to encourage physical activity [22] and smoking cessation programs [23]