QUESTION PERIOD — Health
National Pharmacare
May 22, 2024
Senator Gold, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce recently released a brief in response to Bill C-64 that contained two data points of note. First, they stated that up to 2 million Canadians might have to switch treatments, and second, that 1 million diabetics might not have access to their current medication as a result of Bill C-64.
Does the government agree with this assessment of the potential impacts of this bill?
Thank you for your question.
The government’s view is that this legislation is an important step to improving health equity, affordability and health outcomes, and that it has the potential for long-term savings to the health care system, which will benefit all Canadians.
Colleagues, as we know, cost has been identified as the single most important barrier to access to these medications. The costs are unfairly and unevenly borne by women and gender-diverse Canadians. Bill C-64 will ensure that Canadians have access to a comprehensive suite of drugs and devices. In that regard, the government is committed to working with the provinces, territories, Indigenous peoples, partners and stakeholders to improve accessibility and affordability, and approve the appropriate use of all pharmaceutical products.
Senator Gold, significant amounts of prescription drugs are being diverted over the border due to bulk purchasing in the United States. Earlier this year, the FDA authorized the State of Florida to import certain prescription drugs from Canada, potentially disrupting the supply of medications for Canadians.
How will the government deal with these cross-border pharmacy sales that are negatively impacting Canadians?
Thank you for your question. Canadians can be assured that the government will continue to take all steps necessary to ensure that Canadians have access to a proper drug supply in Canada.
I have been informed that there are provisions under the Food and Drugs Act that prohibit certain drugs from being sold outside of the country if that sale could cause or worsen a drug shortage in Canada, including all drugs eligible for bulk importation to the U.S. My understanding is that Health Canada is actively monitoring the Canadian drug supply to continue to ensure that Canadians have access to all of the drugs they need.
