Reminder: Pharmacare took effect in British Columbia (B.C.) on March 1, 2026

Since the new Pharmacare Act went into effect, the Minister of Health has been partnering with all provinces and territories on finalizing and implementing individual agreements. Through Pharmacare there is a universal, single-payer, first-dollar access to a variety of diabetes and contraception medications for Canadians.

As of March 1, 2026, B.C. implemented the National Pharmacare Plan. This plan includes first-dollar coverage for select diabetes medications and menopausal hormone therapy medications. As a reminder, contraceptive medications are available to B.C. residents for free since 2023.

Additionally, starting April 1, 2026, coverage will expand to include certain diabetes-related devices and supplies. Additional information can be found on the Government of B.C.’s website.  

While coverage of these medications is changing, plan members should not experience any disruptions when filling their prescriptions at the pharmacy.

We’re continuing to work closely with CLHIA, the provincial governments, and our Pharmacy Benefits Provider, Express Scripts Canada, on these changes and will provide updates once available.

For more detailed information, please don't hesitate to contact the Government of B.C.:
Lower Mainland: 604-683-7151
Rest of B.C. (toll-free): 1-800-663-7100

If you have any questions or need further clarification, please contact your Sun Life Group Benefits Representative.