Apply for the Seniors’ Pharmacare Program
The Seniors’ Pharmacare Program is a provincial drug assistance plan that helps seniors with the cost of prescription drugs. Seniors can apply for the program if they don’t have prescription drug coverage under any other plan or program.
Use the Seniors’ Pharmacare Program Registration Form to get help with the cost of prescription drugs. You can apply any time.
The Seniors’ Pharmacare program is a provincial drug assistance plan that helps seniors with the cost of their prescription drugs and some supplies.
Once you’re enrolled in the program, your Health Card becomes your Pharmacare Card.
As a member, you pay an annual premium based on your household income. You also pay an annual copayment at the pharmacy or directly to the Seniors’ Pharmacare Program.
Both the premium and the copayment amounts have annual maximums. The province covers the rest of the costs. You can calculate your Seniors’ Pharmacare premium using the Seniors’ Pharmacare Program calculator.
Some members may be eligible for a reduced or waived premium.
Benefits
The Seniors' Pharmacare Program pays for drugs, supplies and related services. The Nova Scotia Formulary outlines the which drugs and supplies are benefits under the program.
Application package
The Seniors' Pharmacare Program sends you an application package if you have a valid Health Card. You should get the application package before your 65th birthday.
Updating your personal information
You need to notify the Seniors’ Pharmacare Program and MSI Resident Services if there are any changes to your personal information (like change of address).
Coverage for sensor-based glucose monitoring
You have several options for sensor-based glucose monitoring coverage. Options include the Sensor-based Glucose Monitoring Program, Seniors’ Pharmacare Program, Family Pharmacare Program and Department of Opportunities and Social Development Pharmacare Benefits Program. You can only have coverage under 1 program (compare the programs to determine what program best suits your personal and financial needs).
Eligibility
You can apply for the program if you:
- are 65 or older
- are a Nova Scotia resident
- have a Health Card (the card can’t be expired)
- don’t have prescription drug coverage under other programs or plans
Each senior needs to apply individually, regardless of marital status.
How to apply
- Review detailed program criteria in the Seniors’ Pharmacare Program Guide.
- Complete the form online.
- Check the form for details on all required supporting documents.
- Submit your completed form and supporting documents.
If you’d like to receive a paper application form by mail, contact the Seniors' Pharmacare Program.
How long it takes
It should take 1 to 2 weeks to find out if your application is approved. It can take longer if more information is needed or if your application hasn’t been filled in correctly.
Cost
There is no cost to apply, but there is an annual premium associated with participating in the program.
Before you start
Make sure you have:
- reviewed detailed program criteria in the Seniors’ Pharmacare Program Guide
- Health Card number for you and your spouse, if applicable
- Social Insurance Number for you and your spouse, if applicable
- all adults available to sign the form, if applicable
Apply online
When you submit the form online you need to create an account or sign in. You can complete the form online (without uploading a PDF) if you opt in to receive MSI correspondence online and MSI Resident Services emails you to confirm you can complete the process online.
You can use the Seniors’ Pharmacare Program Registration Form (PDF 131 kB) if you’re unable to complete the form online (or use the application form you receive in the mail). Send your completed form by mail or fax.
If you use the PDF to apply, make sure you have all adults available to sign the form.
You can also submit the form online by uploading the PDF (you don’t need to opt in to receive MSI correspondence online to upload the PDF).
Renewal
You need to renew by 1 April each year. It’s your responsibility to renew on time.