98.9 ESTABLISHMENT OF A NATIONAL UNIVERSAL DRUG INSURANCE PLAN
Whereas, since 1984, drug costs have escalated more than any other factor in health care costs and drug costs are a substantial proportion of the health care costs borne by Medicare and individuals; and
Whereas, approximately 15% of the Canadian population lacks any type of drug coverage and there is a strong body of evidence that individuals with lower income have greater health care needs and spend a higher proportion of their incomes on prescription drugs; and
Whereas, there is a patchwork of public and private plans in the provinces that provide partial coverage for about 43% of the population of Canada; and
Whereas, a National Drug Plan could ensure a more equitable, cost-effective delivery of needed medication and generate substantial savings in drugs and overhead costs;
Therefore, be it RESOLVED,
RESOLVED, that the National Council of Women of Canada urge the Government of Canada to take a lead role with the Provinces in establishing a National Drug Insurance Plan for prescription drugs for all Canadians and to commit the necessary resources to establish such a plan; and be it further
RESOLVED, that the National Council of Women of Canada reiterate its 1985 Policy on Drug Patent Protection:
- Support and encourage the Canadian-owned drug, generic drug, and biological drug manufacturing industry; and
- Retain and strengthen the provision of section 41(4) of the Patent Act 1969, re: licensing of generic drugs; and
- Encourage competition and reduce cost, particularly of essential drugs; and
- Limit any changes to those recommended by the Eastman Commission.