Evaluating the Need for a National Pharmacare Program in Canada Opportunities and Challenges

Abstract

This paper was originally written for Dr. Lauren Currie’s HSCI 305 course The Canadian Health System. The assignment asked students to discuss the evidence supporting and opposing establishing a national pharmacare program in Canada, as well as potential challenges associated with the implementation of this program. The paper uses APA citation style.

In the absence of a national pharmacare program, Canada’s fragmented approach to funding prescription medications imposes significant out-of-pocket costs on many Canadians. Evidence supporting the implementation of a national pharmacare program is substantial, suggesting that it can improve access and adherence to prescriptions and reduce inequities. On the other hand, evidence opposing the implementation of such a program is primarily concerned with its costs and potential damages associated with cost controls. Implementing a national pharmacare program will not be without major challenges. Gaining support from the public, clinicians, and policymakers poses difficulties, with the most significant challenge being managing the pharma-private insurance alliance. Despite these opposing arguments and challenges, implementing a national pharmacare program is an efficient and equitable way to improve access to prescription medications and enhance health outcomes at the population level.