Elizabeth Kwan, senior researcher at the congress, has expressed similarly alarming sentiments. She continues to doubt the federal government’s commitment to truly moving forward with the Pharmacare program. As discussions continue around healthcare initiatives, advocates stress the importance of maintaining and expanding social programs that Canadians rely on. The government’s recent actions have led many to question whether it is fulfilling its promises to provide equitable healthcare across the nation.
This year, British Columbia (B.C.) captured the world’s attention when it became the first province to cover the cost of contraceptives. This action is big news for the advancement of women’s health. B.C. was the first province to sign a federal funding agreement under the new Pharmacare Act. Implementation of this act, adopted last fall by the Liberal government, together with the New Democratic Party (NDP). This first phase of the act will make contraceptives and diabetes medications free for all patients in Canada.
Incoming Prime Minister Mark Carney, leader of the Liberal Party, kept his campaign promise. He promised that current contracts would not be touched, and they would not be reduced or eliminated. The Trudeau government didn’t wait for the provinces either, quickly signing national deals with British Columbia, Prince Edward Island, Yukon and Manitoba. These contracts guarantee the coverage of particular drugs for the next four years. The federal government’s most recent budget committed $1.5 billion to implement this first phase of the Pharmacare program.
Promises and Responsibilities
Kwan emphasized the significance of these social programs, stating, “The government needs to understand that nation-building means nation-building with the social programs that define us as Canadians. I believe that that’s part of what makes us a sovereign country.” As we documented last year, advocates were successful in calling on the federal government to settle deals with all but two of the provinces and territories. Kwan cautioned that not doing so would be a second broken promise to Canadians.
Teale Phelps Bondaroff, another leading advocate, articulated the disappointment felt by many that the government did not prioritize people’s health and equity. He remarked, “That’s incredibly disappointing and demonstrates a fundamental lack of leadership on this issue.” Phelps Bondaroff pointed out, “You have a government that’s hyper-focused on these macro issues and I worry that they’re forgetting about everyday Canadians in that process.”
This is a recipe for disaster that has left many Canadians frightened by what they are seeing today. They depend on workplace insurance plans to provide access to these critical medications. While these discussions are underway, advocates such as Kwan are calling for immediate action to be taken by both the provincial and federal governments.
Future of Women’s Health
Dr. Amanda Black, a healthcare professional, voiced her apprehension regarding potential setbacks for women’s health if new agreements fail to materialize. She stated, “I think we need to pressure both at the provincial level as well as at the federal level.” Women’s advocates are concerned that women will face unaffordable out-of-pocket medical expenses. Without affordable comprehensive coverage, getting the care they need could be a cost prohibitive challenge.
Public health advocate Julie Veinot expressed her dismay surmounting surveillance that some provinces could leave coverage untapped. She went on to repeat a very common concern about this alarming trend. “It is quite a shock to me that there is even the possibility that some provinces won’t get this coverage,” she said. Veinot further emphasized the need for equal coverage across the country: “I expected people across the country to have equal coverage.”
With a growing cost of living, including inflation and high prices at the pump, access to medications has become even more urgent. Veinot highlighted the challenge many Canadians face, stating, “Unfortunately, we know the cost of living is super high right now, so we don’t want folks to have to pick between paying rent and buying birth control.”
Government’s Stance
Health Minister Marjorie Michel addressed concerns regarding the government’s approach to healthcare funding, indicating a willingness to engage with provinces. “It’s a new government, and we are in a new context, and we have to have discussions with the provinces to see how we can support them,” she explained. As critics point out, these conversations need to turn into real commitments and actions for every province.
A spokesperson for Prime Minister Carney reiterated the government’s pledge not to cut or abolish existing deals, affirming their commitment to maintaining support for essential medications. Many advocates are still doubtful that these words will translate into positive action that will bring real change to all Canadians.
