Substance Use Harm Reduction Drug Program
If you are an Islander seeking treatment for opioid use disorder or alcohol use disorder, you may be eligible for coverage of approved medication costs through the Substance Use Harm Reduction Drug Program effective June 1, 2022.
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
How do I apply?
Your nurse practitioner or medical practitioner must complete a Substance Use Harm Reduction Drug Program Registration Form
Some medications will also require your practitioner to complete a Special Authorization Medication request; please confirm with your healthcare professional if this is necessary for you.
How much of the medication cost will be covered?
All costs of approved medications eligible under this program are covered.
What if my medication is not listed in the PEI Pharmacare Formulary?
If your medication is not included in the PEI Pharmacare Formulary, it will not be eligible for cost coverage. You will only be eligible for coverage of the approved medications through the Substance Use Harm Reduction Drug Program.
Where can I get my medication?
You can fill your prescription 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.
Your coverage will be active on the first business day of receipt of the enrollment form (and Special Authorization Medication form if necessary).
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.
Where do I go for support?
If you need help with your opioid addiction, call 1-888-299-8399 toll free for the Opioid Replacement Therapy Program. Your family physician, addiction counsellor, or other health professional may also call on your behalf.
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