Drug coverage
National Pharmacare
Federal bilateral agreements covering specific drug categories in participating jurisdictions, alongside provincial pharmacare systems.
National Pharmacare is one pathway within broader public drug coverage, not a replacement for all provincial plans.
Commonly confused with
Universal single-payer pharmacare proposals, current National Pharmacare covers listed categories in some provinces.
The exact definition and rules can differ by program. Check the official rules for the benefit you are applying for.
Related terms
Drug coverage
Pharmacare
A provincial or territorial public drug insurance program that helps residents pay for prescription medications.
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Assistance-linked drug coverage
Prescription coverage provided automatically when you receive social assistance or some disability programs.
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Copayment
Your fixed share of a prescription cost at the pharmacy after the plan pays its portion.
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Cost sharing (drug plans)
The combination of deductibles, copayments, and premiums you pay while the plan pays the rest.
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Pharmacare deductible
The amount you pay out of pocket for eligible drugs each year before a public plan starts paying its share.
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