British Columbia Expands Prescription Coverage for Diabetes
British Columbia is rolling out a new phase of its national pharmacare plan on March 1, 2026, that will dramatically reduce the cost of managing diabetes. Under the expanded BC PharmaCare National Pharmacare Plan, eligible residents will be able to access many commonly prescribed diabetes medications — including insulins and oral treatments — at no cost when they pick them up at the pharmacy. This benefit applies to both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes medications.
Health Minister Josie Osborne says the move will help hundreds of thousands of people across the province get the medicines they need without worrying about how much they cost.
How the Coverage Works
Starting March 1, coverage is automatic for residents enrolled in the Medical Services Plan (MSP) — there’s no separate sign-up required. Patients simply present their prescription and B.C. Services Card at a pharmacy, and eligible drugs are processed just like under other PharmaCare plans.
The expanded plan also includes full coverage of menopausal hormone therapy for people experiencing menopause.
A wide range of diabetes medications will be included in the no-cost list — such as insulin, metformin, and other oral drugs commonly used to manage blood sugar — making it easier for people to stay on essential treatment.
Part of a Larger Provincial-Federal Agreement
This enhanced prescription coverage comes from a broader agreement signed by B.C. and the federal government in March 2025, under which Ottawa is providing up to $670 million in funding over three years to support national pharmacare implementation in the province.
Officials and health advocates have described the expanded coverage as a “game changer” for patients who previously faced significant out-of-pocket costs — in some cases exceeding thousands of dollars annually for diabetes drugs.
Devices and Supplies to Follow
While medications are covered beginning March 1, expanded support for certain diabetes-related devices and supplies — including items such as continuous glucose monitors and pumps — is set to begin on April 1, 2026.
Under the updated policy, pharmacies cannot charge patients for medications or related dispensing services covered by the plan, ensuring no unexpected costs at the counter for covered drugs.
With this launch, British Columbians managing diabetes and menopause will soon have greater access to necessary care without the financial barriers that previously made consistent treatment difficult for many.
Stay updated instantly — follow us on Instagram | Facebook | X
