Over 4000 drugs will be free for everyone under 25 in Ontario next month
In a month, 4,400 drugs will be free to Canadian youth aged 24 and under.
The new prescription drug program is offered through OHIP+, which was introduced by the Ontario government earlier this year.
And the province is making it easier to find out what medications will be covered with a new online search tool.
On Thursday, Dr. Eric Hoskins, Minister of Health and Long-Term Care, launched mobile-friendly tool, which will help people quickly and easily search through a list of publicly funded medications and other drug products.
“As a physician, I know how difficult it can be for some families to afford the prescription drugs that their children need,” said Hoskins in a statement. “Our government is taking a historic step forward with OHIP+ that will ensure all young people can access the medication they need at no cost, to help them live healthier lives.”
Ontario is the first province to provide prescription medication coverage at no cost for children and youth age 24 and under.
The list of medications available for youth includes asthma inhalers, drugs to treat depression, anxiety, epilepsy, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, antibiotics, EpiPens, diabetes test strips, oral contraceptives, and medications to treat some childhood cancers.
According to the province, enrollment will be automatic with no co-payment or annual deductible, and eligible prescriptions can be filled free of charge (with an Ontario health card or health card number) at any Ontario pharmacy.
The free prescription drugs will be covered beginning January 1, 2018.
See also
Follow Channels and Categories