Improved coverage for most prescription drugs

We have made changes to improve coverage for most prescription drugs starting January 1, 2022. Eligible retired members will have a grace period to transition to the new drug plan.

BC PharmaCare special authority drugs

BC Pharmacare covers more-costly drugs under specific medical circumstances. You can find the list of drugs that require special authority on the BC PharmaCare website.

If your special authority drug is also on GSC’s drug authorization list, then special authority approval is required from BC PharmaCare to be eligible for tier 1 coverage. On your behalf, your doctor can submit a special authority request to BC PharmaCare. Without special authority approval, your drug will be covered under tier 2.

If your special authority drug is not on GSC’s drug authorization list, you do not need approval by BC PharmaCare and will be covered under tier 1 automatically. You may still choose to request an approval for your drug, however, so that BC PharmaCare can consider the eligible amount towards your annual BC PharmaCare deductible.

If you currently have special authority for a drug under BC PharmaCare, there will be no disruption to your coverage (meaning you do not need to reapply). When your pharmacy fills your prescription, you will have tier 1 coverage.