Canada, BC Sign Deal for Universal Free Meds Access
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.
Today, the Honourable Mark Holland, Canada’s Minister of Health, and the Honourable Josie Osborne, British Columbia’s (BC) Minister of Health, announced the signing of a pharmacare agreement to invest more than $670 million over four years to provide universal access to contraceptive and diabetes medications, devices and supplies for residents of BC.
Through this historic agreement, BC residents will receive public coverage for a range of contraceptives and diabetes medications at little to no cost. The funding from this agreement will also improve access to diabetes devices and supplies. This will support the reproductive freedom of more than 1.3 million British Columbians and ensure that nearly 550,000 British Columbians with diabetes can access essential medications – reducing their risk of serious health complications and improving their quality of life.
As part of today’s agreement, BC will also enhance pharmacare coverage for its residents by providing free public coverage of hormone replacement therapy to treat menopausal symptoms for all residents. This additional coverage is a significant step toward improving health care for women and gender diverse people throughout their lifetimes.
BC residents can anticipate beginning to receive coverage for these products in March 2026.
This announcement is an important step forward to improve health equity, affordability and health outcomes for Canadians. The Government of Canada will continue working with the provinces and territories, Indigenous Peoples, partners and stakeholders to make sure every Canadian has access to the essential medications and medical devices they need.
https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/news/2025/03/government-of-canada-signs-pharmacare-agreement-with-british-columbia-to-improve-universal-access-to-free-medications.html