(Ottawa) The Liberal bill on pharmacare will be sent to the Senate after passing third reading in the House of Commons.
The bill is the result of long and careful negotiations between the Liberals and New Democrats and is a key part of their political pact to prevent an early election.
The law would see the federal government provide coverage for certain contraceptives and diabetes medications, and set the stage for a future universal pharmacare program.
The exact list of drugs covered is not yet known, since there will be negotiations with the provincial and territorial governments.
Once the bill is passed, Health Minister Mark Holland will be able to begin formal negotiations with the provinces and territories to implement the program, which is expected to cost $1.5 billion over five years.
The goal is for Canadians to be able to access contraceptives or diabetes medications by presenting their health insurance card, whether they are covered or not.