One of my priorities as MPP has been to enhance the quality and accessibility of health care in our community and particularly for seniors.
The government announced last week that, as of August 1, 2019, prescription drugs will be FREE for seniors in Ontario.
Through an expansion of OHIP+, more than 4,400 prescription drugs will be available free of charge to everyone 65 and over. This new program will make life more affordable for 2.6 million seniors and their families across the province.
Under the expanded OHIP+ program, anyone aged 65 or older will no longer have to pay a deductible or co-payment and would be able to present their eligible prescription and OHIP number at any Ontario pharmacy and receive their medication for free.
Today's announcement builds on steps taken to improve care and make life more affordable for seniors in Ontario, including:
In 2017-18, we introduced OHIP+ for everyone 24 and under. This was done with a balanced budget. Since then, we’ve heard from seniors who have called for this program to be expanded.
"Expanding universal pharmacare to seniors is a big step towards enhancing the quality and accessibility of health care in our community. OHIP+ will make a big difference in the lives of seniors and families who struggle to afford the medicine they need to get better and stay healthy.”
- Yvan Baker, MPP for Etobicoke Centre
“Everybody in this province, no matter their age, deserves the chance to lead healthy, happy lives. Providing prescription drugs to seniors at no cost moves us one step closer to the goal of pharmacare for all people in Ontario.”
- Dr. Helena Jaczek, Minister of Health and Long-Term Care
“Through investments like this, Ontario is furthering its goal of being the best place in the world to grow older. Providing the supports seniors need to be independent, healthy and active, safe and socially connected, is a priority of our government. Ensuring seniors have access to free prescription drugs will help them remain healthy, so they can live their best lives.”
- Dipika Damerla, Minister of Seniors Affairs
Government news release: Making Prescription Drugs Free for People 65 and Over
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