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Until February 2024, Canada did not have a pharmacare program. Earlier federal interest in a universal drug program seemed to be fading, ostensibly on cost grounds. Just in time, the Trudeau government announced a rather weak and diluted pharmacare proposal a few days before the deadline to save the supply-and-confidence agreement between the Liberals and NDP.
"Learn why Canada urgently needs comprehensive pharmacare legislation to provide affordable access to prescription drugs for all Canadians, and how recent government announcements fall short of fulfilling this crucial need."
The plan has also faced opposition from some provincial governments, notably Quebec and Alberta, which have said they would opt out of a national pharmacare program if given the option
Framework of deal would allow legislation to be tabled by March 1 deadline, extending NDP support of Liberal minority government