Prescription Drug Coverage (Pharmacare)

The Department of Community Services provides prescription drug coverage (Pharmacare) to:

• Employment Support and Income Assistance clients (including Extended Pharmacare and Transitional Pharmacare clients)
• Disability Support Program participants
• Children in the care of the Minister and Child and Family Wellbeing through either a district office of the Department of Community Services or a Children's Aid Society/Family and Children's Services agency

To use your Pharmacare benefits, you must:

• Have a Nova Scotia Health Card.
• Show your health card to the pharmacist
• The pharmacist will be able to find out for you if the prescription is covered. Only medications/supplies and the approved amount included in the Nova Scotia Formulary can be covered.
• There is a fee of $5 per prescription unless you are eligible for a co-pay exemption. You can speak with your caseworker to find out if you are co-pay exempt.

If your health card is expired or you need a new one, visit Nova Scotia Health Card webpage or call 1-800-563-8880.

Visit Nova Scotia Pharmacare for more information on Pharmacare benefits.

Next steps

If you have any questions, please contact your caseworker to determine eligibility or  call or visit a Community Services Office.