The Manitoba Government has announced that no-cost coverage of prescription birth control is on the way.
Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care Minister Uzoma Asagwara announced that beginning on October 1, the Manitoba Pharmacare Program will cover the entire cost of roughly 60 commonly used birth-control methods. This includes the pill, intrauterine devices, hormone injections and others.
“Prescription birth control is a right, not a luxury,” said Asagwara. “Money should never be a barrier to accessing reproductive health care. Starting Oct. 1, Manitobans will be able to get some of the most common and effective birth control without having to worry about the cost. This will save people hundreds of dollars and it will ensure you are fully in control of your body and your choices.”
They estimate that the program will save Manitobans hundreds of dollars annually on birth-control costs. Asagwara says that if someone pays $25 a month for oral hormonal pills, this plan could save them as much as $10,000 throughout their lifetime.
“Today’s announcement will ensure that all Manitobans in need will have access to reliable contraception and secures their ability to make a reproductive life plan,” said Dr Jacqueline Gougeon, family physician. “It further empowers women to make decisions around their education and careers that are based solely on their own hopes and dreams and not around unintended pregnancies. This decision represents renewed choice and opportunity for so many of my patients, and removes a tremendous barrier to adequate health care and gender equity.”
Eligible Manitobans who aren't already covered can present their prescription and Manitoba Health Card at a pharmacy when collecting their birth control product.