The Reference Drug Program (RDP) will be modernized as of 1 December 2016, and associated information packages were mailed to all BC physicians this summer. If you did not receive a package call Health Insurance BC (1 866 905-4912) to request a print copy, or access the information online at www.gov.bc.ca/pharmacare/rdp-pro [9].

To secure uninterrupted coverage for your patients, Pharmacare encourages physicians to identify patients who are taking a drug that will not be fully covered by the Modernized RDP and, if appropriate, to switch those patients to a fully covered reference drug before 1 December 2016.

In September, Pharmacare sent letters to all patients who are taking drugs that will not be fully covered as of 1 December 2016 and who have not yet been switched to a fully covered drug. The letters advise patients to contact their physician or pharmacist if they rely on Pharmacare coverage.

If you have questions about changes to the RDP or its impact for a specific patient, call 1 866 905-4912. Staff are available to answer questions 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.