Bill C-64 passes in House of Commons, paving the way for a $1.5bn universal pharmacare program
Canada has taken a significant step towards implementing a universal pharmacare program with the passing of pharmacare legislation through the House of Commons.
Bill C-64, an Act respecting pharmacare, passed third reading on Monday. It is now headed to the Senate, as reported by the Human Resources Director.
Unifor welcomed this development. “We are glad to see the pharmacare plan come to fruition as so many Canadians are in need of it,” said Unifor National President Lana Payne.
“With this bill, we are paving the way for a health care system where no Canadian has to worry about affording their medications.”
The development follows the federal government’s introduction of pharmacare legislation in February, marking the first phase of Ottawa’s universal pharmacare plan. The legislation outlines coverage for essential medications, including contraception and diabetes-related prescriptions and equipment.
According to Unifor, the bill aims to address gaps in Canada's health care system, ensuring comprehensive access to necessary medications for all Canadians.
“This plan is especially significant for women, who often face greater barriers to accessing health care,” said Payne. “By including contraception and other vital medications, we are taking a critical step towards achieving gender equity in health care. This is not just about medication; it's about justice and fairness for all.”
CTV News noted that the exact drugs to be covered are still subject to negotiations with provincial and territorial governments.
Once the bill passes, Mark Holland, Canada’s Minister of Health, can begin formal negotiations with provinces and territories to deliver the program, which is expected to cost $1.5bn over five years.
In August 2023, Holland indicated that legislation for Canada’s universal pharmacare program would be introduced before the year's end if everything proceeded as planned.
In 2021, Annamie Paul, leader of the Green Party of Canada, promised to push for policies protecting essential workers, including a guaranteed liveable income and universal pharmacare.
Additionally, in 2021, Ottawa and Prince Edward Island signed an agreement, advancing the introduction of a national universal pharmacare program for Canada.
