Pharmacare program likely to cost seniors more next year: opposition
Posted Jan 28, 2016 04:16:05 PM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
HALIFAX – Nova Scotia’s opposition parties are accusing the Liberal government of designing a seniors drug plan that will save the government money, but cost seniors more.
One scenario released today by the Liberals suggests under the pharmacare system that starts on April 1, the province will contribute about $110 million in 2016-17 – $10 million less than the current system.
Pharmacare is a blend of government contributions and premiums charged to seniors, which under the new system will be based on the incomes of single people and couples.
Health Minister Leo Glavine says under the changed system, 12,000 seniors who previously paid a premium won’t pay one beginning April 1, while wealthier seniors will see their payments rise.
But Tory Leader Jamie Baillie says the government hasn’t clearly stated to seniors that overall the changes are likely to cost more, based on the recently released figures.
Acting NDP Leader Maureen MacDonald says the old system was functioning well, and exempted the payment of premiums by poor seniors who received the guaranteed income supplement.
