News & Updates
Federal government introduces first phase of national universal pharmacare
March 18, 2024
On February 29, 2024 Bill C-64, An Act respecting pharmacare (Pharmacare Act) was introduced for first reading in the House of Commons.
The Pharmacare Act sets the foundational principles for the first phase of national universal pharmacare in Canada which would start with providing universal, single-payer coverage for a number of contraception and diabetes medications.
Key elements of the bill:
- Funding: Commits to long-term funding to improve the accessibility and affordability of pharmaceutical products, beginning with contraception and diabetes products, subject to agreements with provincial and territorial governments.
- National Formulary: Requires the Minister of Health to create a list of prescription drugs that will be the basis for a national formulary and, accordingly, a national universal pharmacare.
- Bulk Strategy: Requires the Minister to develop a national bulk purchasing strategy for prescription drugs.
- Committee: Requires the Minister to establish a committee of experts to make recommendations regarding the operation and financing of national universal pharmacare.
To view the full bill, click on read more below:
