Diabetes Drug Program

If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, you may be eligible for coverage of approved medications and supplies through the Diabetes Drug Program.  

The Diabetes Drug Program provides assistance toward the cost of approved medications and supplies including insulin products, oral medications, urine-testing materials, and blood strips.

Am I eligible?

You are eligible for the program if you:

• are a PEI resident as defined by the Drug Cost Assistance Act;
• have a valid PEI Health Card; and
• have been diagnosed with diabetes

How do I apply?

Your physician, nurse practitioner or other health care provider must complete a Referral Form [PDF | 112 KB] to request registration into the Diabetes Drug Program.   

How much will I have to pay for my medication?

Your coverage will begin when Medicare receives your physician referral. Under the current co-pay schedule, you will pay the following:

• $10.00/10 mL vial or $20.00/5 x 3 mL cartridges of insulin;
• $11.00 per oral medication prescription;
• $11.00 per prescription for 100 test strips every 25 days (if you have taken insulin within the past 5 months).
• $20.00 per glucagon device (maximum of 2 per year if you have taken insulin within the past 5 months).

You may qualify for the Insulin Pump Program or the Glucose Sensor Program.

What if my medication is not listed in the PEI Pharmacare Formulary?

Some medications in the PEI Pharmacare Formulary are approved on a special authorization basis only. If your physician prescribes a drug in this category, he or she can submit a Standard Special Authorization Request form  [PDF | 34 KB] to have a medication considered for coverage.

If your medication is not included in the PEI Pharmacare Formulary, it will not be eligible for coverage.  

What if I have private insurance?

You or your pharmacy must submit all claims to your private insurer first. The remaining out-of-pocket eligible expense can then be submitted to PEI Pharmacare for assessment.

Where can I get my medication?

You can have your prescription filled at any community retail pharmacy located in Prince Edward Island.

Will I get a refund for medication I already purchased?

Coverage is not retroactive, you will not be reimbursed for medications you have already purchased.

Will my medications be eligible for coverage if they are filled at an out of province pharmacy?

Claims are eligible for manual submission only if the  medication or any formulation of the medication cannot be dispensed through a PEI pharmacy.

What if I move away from PEI?

Your eligibility for this program will end the day you leave PEI to take up residency elsewhere.

How can I contact PEI Pharmacare?

PEI Pharmacare 
16 Fitzroy Street
Sullivan Building
Charlottetown, PE   C1A 7N8

Telephone: (902) 368-4947 
Toll free: 1-877-577-3737