The problem

In October 2024, the federal government passed the Pharmacare Act, a landmark step toward universal access to birth control and diabetes treatments for all Canadians. But legislation alone isn't enough. To make coverage a reality, every province and territory must reach an agreement with the federal government. So far, only four have signed on, and there are no signs of new agreements on the horizon.

Canadians are in the grip of an affordability crisis. Too many working people and their families are forced to choose between putting food on the table and filling a prescription. Public sector workers see the consequences of this gap every day, in our hospitals, our schools, our social services, and our communities.

We can't afford to let governments push pharmacare to the wayside. Tell the federal health minister to make good on the promise of pharmacare, demand pharmacare now!

Why it matters

What will Pharmacare cover?

• Birth Control - All Canadians of reproductive age — approximately nine million people — will have access to a comprehensive range of contraceptives, easing the financial burden disproportionately borne by women and gender-diverse Canadians.
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• Diabetes Medications and EquipmentMillions of Canadians living with diabetes will have access to essential medicines, supplies, and equipment needed to manage the condition — helping prevent severe complications like blindness and amputations that are too often linked to inadequate treatment due to cost.

Securing provincial and territorial agreements on birth control and diabetes coverage is just the beginning. We also want a single-payer, public Pharmacare program that is permanent, fully funded, and firmly embedded in Canada's public health care system, one that reflects the Canada Health Act principles of equity, accessibility, and universality. That means ensuring Pharmacare is publicly delivered and not-for-profit and strengthening enforcement of the Canada Health Act to stop privatization and extra-billing. Canada needs universal Pharmacare for all Canadians, not just for two categories of medication, but for every prescription Canadians need, regardless of income, employment, or where they live.

Has your province made a deal?

The Pharmacare Act was a critical first step toward ensuring all Canadians have access to essential medications, starting with diabetes treatments and birth control. But universal access hinges on provincial and territorial negotiations. Each jurisdiction must sign an agreement with the federal government to bring pharmacare to the people who need it. The sooner our federal and provincial leaders finalize these agreements, the sooner universal coverage becomes a reality.

See below which provinces and territories have signed an agreement, and send a letter to your elected representatives asking them to get a deal done.

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