News Release
February 29, 2024 — Brampton, Ontario
The Honourable Mark Holland, Minister of Health, introduced Bill C-64, An Act respecting pharmacare (Pharmacare Act), The Government of Canada intends to work with the Provinces and Territories to provide universal, single-payer coverage for a number of contraception and diabetes medications. He also announced a fund to support Canadians’ access to supplies that diabetics require to manage and monitor their condition and administer their medication. Coverage for contraceptives will mean that 9 million Canadians of reproductive age will have better access to contraceptive methods, which will reduce the risk of unintended pregnancies and increase reproductive autonomy. Cost has been identified as the most impactful barrier to accessing to these medications. Bill C-64 will ensure that Canadians have access to a wide variety of contraceptive drugs and devices.
“After a long journey of raising awareness for diabetes, I am delighted to see our government’s plan to establish a fund to support Canadians’ access to supplies that diabetics require. Improving access to diabetes medications will help improve the health and wellbeing of 3.7 million Canadians living with diabetes.” Said Sonia Sidhu, M.P. from Brampton South.
The Bill demonstrates the Government of Canada’s commitment to improve the access to affordable medications and supplies by reducing financial barriers and improving Canadians’ health and wellbeing.
Bill C-64 also lays out plans for the new Canadian Drug Agency work to develop of a develop a national bulk purchasing strategy, create a list of medical supplies and medications that can be covered under a federal insurance plan, and support the publication of a national strategy regarding the use of medication.
“Each and every Canadian should have access to the prescription drugs they need. That’s why we’re working with our partners towards the first phase of national universal pharmacare. This important next step will provide universal access to contraception and diabetes medication that will be transformational in improving health outcomes in Canada.” Said The Honourable Mark Holland, Minister of Health.
Together, these elements form the next steps towards equitable pharmacare in Canada. I am proud to have attended today’s announcement and have been recognized as a key advocate for diabetes care in Canada and will continue to advocate for my constituents and people across the country to lift barriers to accessing pharmacare treatment.
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