Accessing Medications in British Columbia
Watch this short video to learn how pharmacies work, how to pay for medications, and how pharmacists can help with your healthcare.
Prefer reading? The key information from this video is summarized below.
Medication Access for Newcomers
Learn how to pay for prescriptions, what pharmacists can do, and how to safely access medications in British Columbia.
View full infographic โTrusted Resources
These trusted organizations can help you understand prescription coverage, pharmacy services, and medication costs in British Columbia.
Fair PharmaCare
Learn who is eligible for Fair PharmaCare and how to apply for assistance with prescription medication costs.
Visit resource โInterim Federal Health Program (IFHP)
Information for refugees and protected persons about prescription drug coverage and other healthcare benefits.
Visit resource โFind a Pharmacy
Locate community pharmacies throughout British Columbia.
Visit resource โPaying for medications
Prescription medications are not always covered by MSP. Many British Columbians receive financial assistance through Fair PharmaCare, while eligible refugees and protected persons may receive coverage through the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP).
Your pharmacist can help
Pharmacists do much more than fill prescriptions. In British Columbia they can assess and prescribe medications for many minor illnesses, renew some prescriptions, administer many vaccines, provide contraception services, and answer questions about medications.
Getting a prescription
Bring your BC Services Card or other health coverage documents when you visit a pharmacy. If you need language support, ask the pharmacy staff if interpretation services are available.
Medication reviews
If you take several medications, ask your pharmacist about a medication review. They can explain how each medicine works, when to take it, possible side effects, and whether any medications may interact with each other.
Medication safety
Always take medications exactly as directed. Never share prescription medicines with others, and keep an up-to-date list of all prescription, over-the-counter, vitamin, and herbal products you use.