Four ways to save money on prescription medications

Canadians pay some of the highest prices for prescription drugs in the developed world, thanks to a patchwork system that undermines our collective clout

Canada’s health-care system has a fundamental flaw: lack of a publicly funded pharmacare program. But there are ways to manage your prescription medication costs.

Our universal health-care system provides publicly funded essential doctor and hospital care based on need, rather than ability to pay.

But Canada is the only industrialized country in the world that has a universal health system without a publicly funded program to cover prescription medication costs outside of hospitals. So most Canadians pay for their prescriptions through private insurance programs or outof-pocket.

Canadians also pay some of the highest prices for prescription drugs in the developed world, thanks to a patchwork system of negotiating drug prices that undermines our collective clout.

The result? As many as one in five Canadians can’t afford the medications their doctors prescribe, according to a national poll — and some even skip them altogether, with possible catastrophic health consequences.

So saving even a few bucks per prescription could add up to a big savings over time, and ensure better health for millions of Canadians. Here are four ways you could save on your prescription medication.

— Ask your doctor if you should (still) be on the medication

Never stop a prescribed medication without consulting your doctor. Reducing or stopping a medication could have serious health consequences. However, it’s worth asking your doctor if you need to be on the medication.

Campaigns such as Choosing Wisely Canada, in partnership with the Canadian Medical Association, have suggestions to help avoid unnecessary medical tests and treatments that evidence shows don’t enhance care. For example, taking antibiotics for a viral infection is ineffective.

Other organizations, such as the Deprescribing Network, warn against over-medicalization, particularly for seniors. Often, medications that were once useful are no longer needed and may cause unnecessary harm.

Review your medications regularly with your doctor to make sure you’re on the lowest dosage required, to weigh the benefits and risks, and to consider if you need the medication at all.