BC PharmaCare programs
Last updated on July 30, 2024This page for health professionals links to key BC PharmaCare programs.
On this page: Special Authority | Reference Drug Program | Low Cost Alternative Program | Trial Prescription Program | Biosimilars Initiative | Smoking Cessation Program
Special Authority
PharmaCare covers some limited coverage drugs only with a special request from a prescriber or pharmacist when a patient meets specific clinical criteria. Special Authority coverage may be granted for full coverage of a medical supply, device or drug that is otherwise partially covered or not covered.
Learn more so you can help your patients get the best coverage:
Reference Drug Program
The Reference Drug Program is based on seven therapeutic classes of equally safe and effective drugs, of which at least one drug is fully covered -- the category’s “reference” drug. Learn more so you can help your patients get the best coverage:
Low Cost Alternative (LCA) Program
The Low Cost Alternative (LCA) program groups drugs that contain the same active ingredients in the same strength and formulation. The LCA program bases coverage on the price of the lowest-cost generic within a group of drugs. Learn more so you can help your patients get the best coverage:
Trial Prescription Program
The Trial Prescription Program aims to reduce drug wastage when people have adverse drug reactions and cannot use the remainder of a regular prescription. Under this program, pharmacists can initially dispense a small quantity (max. 14-day supply) than the prescription indicates for medications with a known high incidence of side effects. Learn more about the program and the eligible drugs:
Biosimilars Initiative
The Biosimilars Initiative transitions PharmaCare-covered patients taking originator drugs to equally safe and effective biosimilar versions. PharmaCare periodically calls on prescribers and pharmacists to support transition periods. Since 2019, the initiative has saved $732 million. Savings are re-invested to improve and expand coverage of other drugs and medical devices. Learn more:
Smoking Cessation Program
The BC Smoking Cessation Program helps eligible B.C. residents of any age quit cigarettes or other tobacco products. The program covers specific prescription smoking cessation drugs and specific non-prescription nicotine replacement therapy products such as patches and gum. Learn more about how you can help B.C. residents quit tobacco:
