Charlottetown – No one should have to choose between paying for prescription drugs and putting food on the table. That’s why the Government of Canada is taking action so Canadians can get the medication they need, regardless of their ability to pay.
Mark Holland, Canada’s Minister of Health and Mark McLane, Minister of Health and Wellness for Prince Edward Island (PEI) announced a $40 million federal investment as part of two bilateral agreements to improve access to medications for Islanders.
Through the national pharmacare agreement, the Government of Canada will provide more than $30 million over four years for universal coverage to a range of contraceptives and diabetes medications for PEI residents, at little to no direct cost to them. The funding from this agreement will also improve access to diabetes devices and supplies.
This will support the reproductive freedom of over 41,000 Islanders and make sure that over 16,000 Islanders with diabetes can access essential medications to reduce their risk of serious health complications and improve their quality of life.
PEI residents can anticipate beginning to receive coverage for these products on May 1, 2025.
In addition, the Government of Canada will provide over $10 million to improve access to drugs for rare diseases, early diagnosis, and screening, to support the province in providing access under the National Strategy for Drugs for Rare Diseases.
Through this agreement, PEI will also work with Canada and other provinces and territories to develop and implement a plan for improved screening and diagnostics for rare diseases.
This is yet another important step forward to improve health equity, affordability and health outcomes for Canadians. The Government of Canada will continue working with PTs, Indigenous Peoples, partners and stakeholders to make sure every Canadian has access to the essential medications and medical devices they need.
“The agreements signed today with PEI mark a significant milestone in building a stronger public healthcare system for Islanders. We are making sure that every Canadian, including people living with a rare disease, can get the medications they need. We will keep working with all provinces and territories to sign more deals so that across the country, Canadians are covered.” – Mark Holland, Canada’s Minister of Health
“For too many Islanders, the cost of their medication can be an additional barrier to accessing quality health care. For some, paying for medication presents an impossible choice ─ between managing a health condition and making ends meet. This investment is about making prescription drugs accessible for those who need them and building a stronger, more inclusive health care system.”- Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food