Government Intends to Eliminate Pharmacare Premium

Health Minister Jim Smith announced in the House of Assembly today that a committee will be established to propose alternatives to the premium for the Nova Scotia seniors' Pharmacare program.

"It's the government's intention to work together with the committee and the Pharmacare board of directors to eliminate the Pharmacare premium paid by seniors," said Dr. Smith. "We want to bring improvements to the program that will be beneficial to seniors across the province."

The committee will also be asked to identify additional reforms that will help to ensure the long-term viability of the Pharmacare program. Its report is due by the fall in time for changes to be made to the program before the next fiscal year. The committee will include representatives from seniors' organizations.

The premium for this year will not change.

Approximately, 107,000 seniors are enrolled in the senior's Pharmacare program. The annual Pharmacare premium is up to $215 with a 20 per cent co-payment to a maximum of $200.