This is a reminder that as of January 1, 2021, Fair PharmaCare has reset. Fair PharmaCare helps pay for eligible prescription drugs and some medical supplies, including some ostomy supplies. It is income based – the lower your income, the more help you receive. Most B.C. residents are eligible for coverage by this plan, however you must register. Register online, by phone or with a paper form, refer to https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/health-drug-coverage/pharmacare-for-bc-residents/about-pharmacare. To do this you will need your BC Care Card and to have filed income tax for the past two years.
Based on income, a deductible is set for your family. On January 1, 2021, PharmaNet was updated to reflect 2021 annual deductibles and family maximums. Deductible accumulations will be reset to zero. Your 2021 deductible will be based on your family’s net income for 2019. The deductible is the amount you need to spend before Fair PharmaCare starts to help with the costs of eligible expenses. Your prescription and medical supply (including ostomy supplies) purchases go towards the same deductible. Once your deductible is reached, PharmaCare will pay 70% of the costs for the remainder of the year. In January of each year, the deductible is reset.
Fair PharmaCare registrants can get information about their deductible and family maximum by:
Requesting a Confirmation of Fair PharmaCare letter be mailed to them.
Calling Health Insurance BC (Monday to Friday, from 8 am to 8 pm; Saturdays, 8 am to 4 pm)
From the Lower Mainland at 604 683-7151
From the rest of B.C., toll-free, at 1 800 663-7100
Fair PharmaCare covers most prescription drugs and some medical supplies. Basic ostomy supplies are covered. Items not covered include: catheters, incontinence products, pouch covers, pouch liners, stoma hole cutters, hernia support belts, cleansers, lubricants, tapes other than paper tape, deodorants, alcohol swabs and gauze. Elastic barrier strips (also called barrier extenders) are covered. Any items purchased through online suppliers are not covered.
For more details refer to https://www2.gov.bc.ca/assets/gov/health/health-drug-coverage/pharmacare/ostomy.pdf.
