PEI Pharmacare

PEI Pharmacare helps Islanders with the cost of eligible prescription medications, certain medical supplies, and pharmacy services. You may be eligible to receive either partial or full coverage through one of the drug cost assistance programs.  

Am I eligible for coverage through PEI Pharmacare? 

If you meet the medical criteria for a specific drug program, or if the cost of your medication is excessive, you may be eligible for assistance with the cost of your prescription medication. 

To be eligible for coverage:

• you must be a permanent PEI resident as defined by the Drug Cost Assistance Act;
• you must have a valid PEI Health Card;
• your medication must be listed on the PEI Pharmacare Formulary; and
• you must qualify for one of the Drug Programs.

What is the PEI Pharmacare Formulary? 

The formulary is a list of prescription medications and medical supplies approved for coverage through PEI Pharmacare. The formulary is regularly reviewed and updated by committees of practicing physicians, pharmacists, and drug evaluation experts.
  
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. 

Who keeps track of my medications? 

Information about your prescription medications is recorded and securely stored in the PEI Drug Information System. Each time you have a new prescription filled, your medication list is updated, helping health professionals determine if a new drug therapy is appropriate based on your past medication history. 

Your medication profile on the electronic system is linked to health care sites such as pharmacies, physicians’ offices, health centres, and emergency departments. Only physicians, nurses, pharmacists, and other authorized health care professionals can access it when they need it, allowing them to make safer and more informed decisions about your care.

How do 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