BCNU is working with employers to ensure PharmaCare Tie-in is implemented in accordance with negotiated agreement

It has come to the union's attention that aspects of the new extended health care plan negotiated with employers are not being implemented in accordance with the collective agreement.

Of primary concern is the denial of coverage for certain prescription drugs that the employer agreed to cover during bargaining - including coverage under Special Authority for the top 100 drugs used by BCNU members.

BCNU is also troubled to learn that some members - such as those on long-term disability - will be forced to suspend treatments mid-course. Others will have reduced coverage if living out-of-province, or endure long waits with no coverage while awaiting access to a specialist who can apply for Special Authority.

The union brought its concerns to the Health Employers Association of BC and has negotiated an agreement whereby employers will honour any claims made before March 1, 2013 as result of the switch to the PharmaCare Tie-in.

The integration of drug coverage with the provincial PharmaCare formulary (PharmaCare Tie-in) was designed to minimize the impact of rising drug costs while safeguarding members' access to safe and effective drugs.

The very negative impacts some members are now reporting were not intended and not bargained. BCNU will be meeting with employers and Ministry of Health officials in the near future to further address its concerns and work to rectify these problems.

If you have questions about the PharmaCare Tie-in or wish to report any problems you have encountered, please contact BCNU at 604-433-2268 or toll free at 1-800-663-9991 or email pharmacare@bcnu.org.

If you have questions specifically related to your coverage, please contact Pacific Blue Cross at
604-419-2600.