Province Makes Seniors' Pharmacare More Affordable and Sustainable

Nova Scotians aged 65 and older will have more payment options and no fee increases in prescription drug coverage this year.

"The province is committed to meeting the changing needs of Nova Scotia seniors and Seniors' Pharmacare is one valuable program that helps us meet those needs," said Health Minister Chris d'Entremont. "Changes to the program this year will ensure that this part of the health-care system remains both affordable and sustainable over time."

Effective April 1, the $30 cap per prescription will be removed. Seniors will continue to pay a co-payment of 33 per cent for each prescription, with an annual cap of $382. Seniors will now have the option to make monthly, quarterly or annual co-payments similar to their premium payments.

Changes to the program are discussed with the Group of IX Seniors' Organization through the Department of Seniors. The primary role of the group is to ensure the needs of seniors are represented in government decision-making.

"We are pleased to see that seniors will be able to pay their co-payment over a period of time during the year, making it more manageable for some seniors who are on a limited income," said Bernie LaRusic, chair of the Group of IX. "We are also pleased to see that there are no fee increases this year, making this valuable program more accessible to those who need it the most."

More than 96,000 people are registered in the Seniors' Pharmacare program and more than 50 per cent, including those receiving the guaranteed income supplement, are exempt from paying the premiums or pay a reduced amount.

The program is cost-shared, with government paying 75 per cent and program members paying 25 per cent. The total cost to operate the program in 2008-09 is about $178 million.

"Government is committed to covering 75 per cent of these rising drug costs so that prescription drugs are within the reach of seniors who need them to stay healthy or to manage illness," said Mr. d'Entremont.

The annual renewal package for the Seniors' Pharmacare program will be mailed to seniors starting Feb. 25. The package has information about program changes, including the new co-payment options form to help seniors with the cost of having their prescriptions filled at the pharmacy. Further program information and forms can also be found at www.nspharmacare.ca .