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The Manitoba government will offer free prescription birth control starting Oct. 1, Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care Minister Uzoma Asagwara announced the new coverage Thursday.
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“Prescription birth control is a right, not a luxury,” Asagwara said during a press conference at the Manitoba Legislature. “Money should never be a barrier to accessing reproductive health care. Starting Oct. 1, Manitobans will be able to get some of the most common and effective birth control without having to worry about the cost. This will save people hundreds of dollars and it will ensure you are fully in control of your body and your choices.”
The coverage will be part of the Manitoba Pharmacare Program, which will cover the full cost of about 60 commonly used birth control methods, including the pill, intrauterine devices, and hormone injections.
People can obtain a prescription from doctors, nurse practitioners, walk-in clinics, or hospitals.
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Dr. Jacqueline Gougeon, a family physician, praised the announcement.
“Today’s announcement will ensure that all Manitobans in need will have access to reliable contraception and secures their ability to make a reproductive life plan. It further empowers women to make decisions around their education and careers that are based solely on their own hopes and dreams and not around unintended pregnancies.
“This decision represents renewed choice and opportunity for so many of my patients, and removes a tremendous barrier to adequate health care and gender equity.”
Manitobans who do not have existing coverage from other programs can present their prescription and Manitoba Health Card at pharmacies to receive free birth control. The new program is expected to save individuals up to $10,000 over their lifetime.
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