The British Columbia and federal governments have signed a four-year, $670-million pharmacare agreement, giving universal access to contraceptive and diabetes medications.
“Through this historic agreement, BC residents will receive public coverage for a range of contraceptives and diabetes medications at little to no cost,” the federal government said in a statement.
“The funding from this agreement will also improve access to diabetes devices and supplies.”
According to the government, this will support 1.3 million British Columbians with a range of contraceptives and almost 550,000 residents with diabetes to access essential medications.
“As part of today’s agreement, B.C. will also enhance pharmacare coverage for its residents by providing free public coverage of hormone replacement therapy to treat menopausal symptoms for all residents,” the government said in the statement.
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“This additional coverage is a significant step toward improving health care for women and gender diverse people throughout their lifetimes.”
B.C. residents can expect to begin receiving coverage for these products in March 2026.
However, Liam MacDonald, director of policy and government relations, with the Canadian Chamber of Commerce said now is not the time for another costly and unnecessary pharmacare agreement.
“This agreement with British Columbia could restrict the range of necessary medications by forcing everyone, even those who already have employer-provided drug coverage, onto a government plan,” he said in a statement.
“In all likelihood, this plan will cover only a fraction of what British Columbians currently access through their employer insurance plans.
“National pharmacare isn’t necessary. Ottawa can work with provinces to fill the small gaps in drug coverage for a fraction of the cost, while maintaining the beneficial role played by private insurers. Not only would this improve access to medications, but it would also be more fiscally responsible.”
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