National Pharmacare Update

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The Government of Canada has announced pharmacare partnerships with Manitoba and Prince Edward Island. These programs offer universal, single-payer coverage for certain prescription medications, including contraceptives, diabetes treatments, and hormone replacement therapies for eligible residents. The initiative aims to reduce financial burdens and ensure equitable access to healthcare in these provinces..

Recent Updates:

Manitoba – Effective April 15, 2025

Specific diabetic and hormone replacement medications will be funded un the new pharmacare agreement. Universal coverage for oral contraceptives was already implemented October 1, 2024.

Prince Edward Island – Effective June 1, 2025

Specific diabetic and contraceptive medications will be funded under the new pharmacare agreement..

The Canadian Government Interpretation of the Canada Health Act and how it could impact Virtual Care

In early 2025, the federal government released its interpretation of the Canada Health Act (CHA), clarifying the role of primary care providers beyond just physicians. The new Canadian Health Act Services Policy, set to take effect on April 1, 2026, aims to ensure that medically necessary services are fully covered under provincial or territorial healthcare plans. This initiative is intended to close loopholes that have caused Canadians to be charged out-of-pocket for essential care. As part of its enforcement, the CHA may prohibit employer-sponsored benefit plans from covering certain virtual healthcare services.

The benefitsConnect team will continue to closely monitor these developments and communicate any necessary changes in the new year.