N.S. wants to go ‘back to the table’ on federal pharmacare deal
Nova Scotia’s Health Department is eager to re-enter discussions with the federal government regarding a pharmacare agreement. Stacy Burgess, the executive director of clinical care and delivery, expressed this sentiment during a meeting of the standing committee on health at Province House on Tuesday. She mentioned that Health Canada is aware of Nova Scotia’s desire to resume negotiations and that they are awaiting an invitation to do so.
The Trudeau government passed legislation last year for a universal pharmacare program. However, each province and territory must sign an agreement with Ottawa to participate in the program due to healthcare falling under their jurisdiction. Currently, British Columbia, Manitoba, Prince Edward Island, and the Yukon have signed agreements for the initial phase of national pharmacare, which includes coverage for diabetes medication and certain prescription contraceptives.
Pharmacist Kari Ellen Graham, the founder of Access Now Nova Scotia, emphasized the importance of signing a deal for universal contraceptive coverage. She highlighted the positive conversations held in the legislature and expressed hope for Nova Scotia to push for comprehensive contraceptive coverage in any agreement reached with the federal government.
During the committee meeting, government MLA Susan Corkum-Greek expressed support for universal contraceptive coverage and stated that the government is keen on securing a pharmacare deal to maximize benefits without leaving any potential funding unutilized. However, she also cautioned about the importance of considering the finer details of such agreements, citing a previous issue with a federal-provincial funding arrangement on child care.
Burgess reiterated the department’s commitment to securing the best possible deal for Nova Scotia, one that is financially responsible, does not disrupt existing programs, and ensures long-term funding. She mentioned that the other pharmacare agreements are for a five-year period.
Graham emphasized the need for Nova Scotia to move forward promptly, citing decades of research and the necessity to expand contraceptive coverage beyond what other provinces have negotiated. She advocated for a more inclusive approach that includes a wider range of contraceptives than what is currently covered in existing pharmacare agreements.
In conclusion, Nova Scotia’s Health Department is eager to resume negotiations with the federal government for a pharmacare agreement that maximizes benefits for the province while ensuring comprehensive healthcare coverage for its residents. The push for universal contraceptive coverage and a thorough consideration of all available options underscore the importance of reaching a fair and inclusive agreement that meets the healthcare needs of Nova Scotians.
