Liberals, NDP reach deal on free access to diabetes drugs and birth control
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The federal Liberals and NDP have reached a deal to provide free access to diabetes medicines and birth control for all Canadians with a health card. Legislation expected next week.
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Deal includes all insulin for Type 1 and 2 diabetes, plus additional diabetes drugs and supplies like glucose monitors. Does not include the weight-loss drug Ozempic.
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Also covers contraceptives like IUDs, emergency contraception/morning after pills. Aims to protect women's reproductive rights.
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Part of the Liberal-NDP supply and confidence deal. NDP threatened to withdraw support if terms not met by March 1 deadline.
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Initial national pharmacare program expected to cost $800 million. Further financial commitment coming soon but not necessarily in spring budget.