Learn about the Yukon National Pharmacare Program

The program covers certain diabetes medications and contraceptive products listed in the Yukon Drug Formulary. Covered medications are free.

Some medications are subject to the Lower-Cost Alternative (LCA) policy. LCA is the least expensive version of a medication in the same therapeutic category. This is usually a lower-cost generic version instead of a brand-name drug.

If a lower-cost alternative is available: 

• The program covers the cost of that option.
• If you choose a brand-name drug, you must pay the difference.

It also provides access to newer insulin pump technologies, such as the Omnipod 5 tubeless automated insulin delivery system, which works with Dexcom G6 and G7 sensors. 

Insulin pump eligibility is granted every 5 years. 

What is not covered

The program does not cover: 

• diabetes equipment, supplies or glucose monitoring devices;
• analgesic or anxiolytic medications for intrauterine device (IUD) insertions;
• medications such as GLP-1 receptor agonists (e.g., Ozempic); and
• all other medications not listed under the program.

For coverage of other diabetes equipment, supplies or medications such as GLP-1 receptor agonists (e.g., Ozempic), refer to our Chronic Disease and Disability Benefits Program or Pharmacare program. 

Special authorization (exception) drugs

Some medications under the Yukon National Pharmacare Program need special approval. Talk to your health care provider about how to apply.

For more details, see the Yukon Drug Formulary.

If coverage is denied, your health care provider may submit a reconsideration request form with supporting documents to Extended Health Benefits.

Step 1: Visit your health care provider

• Get a prescription for a medication listed in the Yukon Drug Formulary.

Step 2: Go to your local Yukon pharmacy

• Bring your prescription and your valid Yukon health care card.

Step 3: Confirm eligibility

• The pharmacist will ask if you are covered under a federal drug benefit program.

If you’re covered under another federal program, you’re not eligible for the YNPP. If you’re eligible, you’re automatically enrolled in the YNPP.

Step 4: Receive your medication

• If eligible, your medication will be provided at no cost to you.

Medications filled outside the Yukon are not covered under this program. 

YNPP supply limits: 

• You can receive up to a 100-day supply at a time.
• You can get a refill once you’ve used 66 per cent or more of your medication.
• Early refills without prior approval may be declined.

Travel supply

If you’ll be outside the Yukon: 

• For 3 months or longer, you can get an extra 100-day supply.
• For 6 months or longer, a Notification of Extended Absence form must be submitted to Insured Health Services. 

You cannot receive more than a 200-day supply total. 

Fill all prescriptions in the Yukon before your travel. Contact your pharmacy early to make sure they have enough of your medication for a larger request.