Prescription Drug Coverage in Saskatchewan
Reviewed by the Commoner Law Editorial Team. Sourced from Canadian federal statutes and official sources. Provincial information reflects each province's own legislation and court rulings. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
Unlike hospital and physician services, prescription drugs are not universally covered under the Canada Health Act when dispensed outside a hospital. Coverage comes from a patchwork of provincial plans, federal programs, and private insurance.
Every province has a public drug plan, but eligibility varies. Most cover seniors, social assistance recipients, and people with high drug costs relative to income.
Federal programs include:
- NIHB — Non-Insured Health Benefits for First Nations and Inuit
- Veterans Affairs coverage
- IFHP — Interim Federal Health Program for refugees
- Coverage for federal inmates
The Pharmacare Act (2024) launched phase 1 of national pharmacare, covering contraceptives and diabetes medications. These benefits are rolling out through 2025-2026 via provincial bilateral agreements. About two-thirds of Canadians also have employer-sponsored drug coverage.
When does it apply?
- Eligibility depends on the specific program — provincial plans cover certain demographics, and national pharmacare phase 1 is rolling out gradually.
- About two-thirds of Canadians have some form of employer-provided drug coverage.
What to Do If You Can't Afford Prescription Drugs in Canada
- Check your provincial drug plan eligibility — you may qualify and not know it.
- Apply for your province's program — Trillium in Ontario, Fair PharmaCare in BC, or the equivalent in your province.
- Ask your pharmacist about pharmacare coverage for diabetes medications and contraceptives under the new national program.
- Register for NIHB if you are First Nations or Inuit.
- Keep all pharmacy receipts — you can claim the medical expense tax credit on your tax return for eligible drug costs.
What should you NOT do?
- Don't assume you have no coverage — many people are eligible for provincial programs but have never enrolled.
- Don't skip medications because of cost — talk to your pharmacist about generic alternatives or assistance programs.
- Don't confuse hospital drug coverage with outpatient coverage — drugs given in hospital are covered, but the same drug dispensed at a pharmacy may not be.
- Don't overlook federal tax credits — the medical expense tax credit can help offset high drug costs.
How Saskatchewan differs from federal law
Saskatchewan provides prescription drug coverage through several provincial programs, with the main programs being the Saskatchewan Drug Plan and the Special Support Program.
- The Saskatchewan Drug Plan covers eligible prescription drugs for Saskatchewan residents. Most residents pay a co-payment (35% of the drug cost) up to a maximum per prescription, with the Drug Plan covering the rest.
- The Special Support Program provides additional coverage for families with high drug costs relative to income. It calculates an annual deductible based on family income, and once the deductible is met, the Drug Plan covers eligible drug costs.
- The Saskatchewan Formulary lists which drugs are covered. If your doctor prescribes a drug not on the formulary, your doctor can apply for Exception Drug Status (EDS).
- Seniors (65 and older) receive enhanced coverage — they pay a lower co-payment and have access to the Seniors Drug Plan.
- Recipients of social assistance (Saskatchewan Income Support) have prescription drugs covered with no co-payment.
Additional Steps in Saskatchewan
You are automatically eligible for the Saskatchewan Drug Plan if you have a valid Saskatchewan Health card. For the Special Support Program, apply through eHealthSask at 306-787-3475 or 1-800-667-7551. If a drug is not covered, ask your doctor about Exception Drug Status. For questions about drug coverage, call the Saskatchewan Drug Plan at 306-787-3317.
Relevant Law: The Saskatchewan Medical Care Insurance Act, SS 1978, c. S-29; The Prescription Drugs Act, SS 1978, c. P-23; Saskatchewan Drug Plan and Extended Benefits Branch
Common Questions
When does prescription drug coverage apply?
Eligibility depends on the specific program — provincial plans cover certain demographics, and national pharmacare phase 1 is rolling out gradually.About two-thirds of Canadians have some form of employer-provided drug coverage.
What should I do if I can't afford my prescription medications in Canada?
Check your provincial drug plan eligibility — you may qualify and not know it.Apply for your province's program — Trillium in Ontario, Fair PharmaCare in BC, or the equivalent in your province.Ask your pharmacist about pharmacare coverage for diabetes medications and contraceptives under the new national program.Register for NIHB if you are First Nations or Inuit.Keep all pharmacy receipts — you can claim the medical expense tax credit on your tax return for eligible drug costs.
What mistakes should I avoid with prescription drug coverage?
Don't assume you have no coverage — many people are eligible for provincial programs but have never enrolled.Don't skip medications because of cost — talk to your pharmacist about generic alternatives or assistance programs.Don't confuse hospital drug coverage with outpatient coverage — drugs given in hospital are covered, but the same drug dispensed at a pharmacy may not be.Don't overlook federal tax credits — the medical expense tax credit can help offset high drug costs.
Prescription Drug Coverage in other states
Same topic, different jurisdiction. Pick the one that applies to you.