Canada, Yukon Sign $9.5M Pharmacare Agreement for Medications

The Yukon and federal governments have reached a $9.5 million pharmacare agreement aimed at providing universal access to contraceptive and diabetes medications for Yukoners over the next four years. This initiative will benefit over 12,000 residents seeking contraceptive services and more than 3,000 individuals with diabetes requiring essential medications at little or no cost. The coverage is expected to begin no later than January 2026, following the federal Pharmacare Act passed in October 2024. Yukon Health Minister Tracy-Anne McPhee emphasized the significance of this agreement in making healthcare more equitable and inclusive. The deal marks Yukon as the fourth jurisdiction in Canada to secure such an agreement, joining Manitoba, British Columbia, and Prince Edward Island. Advocates have highlighted the unmet need for universal access to contraceptives in the territory, citing the potential for significant improvements in family planning and financial relief for residents.