Canada Enacts First Phase of Universal Pharmacare
The Canadian government has enacted the Pharmacare Act, which has received Royal Assent and is now in effect. This legislation marks the first phase of a national universal pharmacare program. The Minister of Health is tasked with collaborating with provincial and territorial governments to establish agreements that will ensure universal, single-payer access to certain medications. The initial focus is on providing access to contraception and diabetes medications.
The Act mandates the creation of a list of essential drugs and related products, which will guide the development of a national formulary. Additionally, it introduces a national bulk purchasing strategy aimed at reducing drug prices. A committee of experts is to be formed within 30 days to provide recommendations on the operation and financing of the pharmacare system.
The government plans to consult with provinces, territories, Indigenous Peoples, and other stakeholders to enhance the accessibility and affordability of pharmaceutical products. The aim is to improve health equity and outcomes while achieving long-term savings in the healthcare system.
The legislation is expected to impact up to nine million women and gender-diverse individuals by providing free access to contraception, and 3.7 million people living with diabetes by offering universal access to relevant medications.