Nursing Home Drug Program

If you are a resident in a private nursing home, you may be eligible for coverage of approved medication costs through the Nursing Home Drug Program.

Am I eligible?

You are eligible for the program if you:

• have a PEI Health Card;
• are a permanent resident in a private nursing home; and
• qualify for financial assistance through the Social Assistance Program.

How do I apply?

Your long-term care facility will notify the administrating pharmacy. 

How much of the medication cost will be covered?

All costs of approved prescription and non-prescription medications are covered by the program.

Effective June 1, 2023, medications covered under the High Cost Drug Program are also covered under the Nursing Home Drug Program.

What if my medication is not listed in the PEI Pharmacare Formulary?

Some medications in the PEI Pharmacare Formulary are approved on a special authorization basis only. If your physician prescribes a drug in this category, he or she can submit a Standard Special Authorization Request form [PDF | 34 KB] to have a medication considered for coverage.

If your medication is not included in the PEI Pharmacare Formulary, it will not be eligible for coverage.  

What if I have private insurance?

You or your pharmacy must submit all claims to your private insurer first. The remaining out-of-pocket eligible expense can then be submitted to PEI Pharmacare for assessment.

Where can I get my medication?

Medications will be provided by your nursing home.

Will I get a refund for medication I already purchased?

Coverage is not retroactive, you will not be reimbursed for medications you have already purchased.

What if I move away from PEI?

Your eligibility for this program will end the day you leave PEI to take up residency elsewhere.

How can I contact PEI Pharmacare?

PEI Pharmacare 
16 Fitzroy Street
Sullivan Building
Charlottetown, PE   C1A 7N8

Telephone: (902) 368-4947 
Toll free: 1-877-577-3737