Manitoba Signs Historic Pharmacare Agreement with Federal Government

Manitoba has made history by becoming the first province to officially sign a pharmacare agreement with the federal government. This groundbreaking agreement will provide $219 million over the course of four years to ensure universal coverage for essential medications and medical supplies, including diabetes medication, contraceptives, and more.

Starting in June, most of the products included in the agreement will be covered, with Manitoba already offering coverage for the cost of birth control. This move comes after Ottawa passed legislation last October laying the groundwork for a national pharmacare plan. As part of this plan, the federal government has committed $1.5 billion for birth control and diabetes medications, with the aim of striking similar agreements with other provinces and territories.

In addition to the coverage for diabetes medication and contraceptives, Manitoba’s agreement with the federal government also includes public coverage for hormone replacement therapy. Furthermore, the federal government will provide $48 million to ensure access to diagnosis, screening, and medication for rare diseases.

This historic agreement marks a significant step towards ensuring that all Manitobans have access to essential medications and medical supplies. By working together with the federal government, Manitoba is setting an example for other provinces and territories to follow in the quest for universal pharmacare coverage.