FRANCAIS

November 29, 2002

Health Minister Dave Chomiak today announced the launch of the new Palliative Care Drug Access Program (PCDAP) which will provide eligible prescription drugs at no charge to palliative patients at the end stages of life.

The program becomes effective Dec. 9 and is directed at people who wish to spend their final days at home or in another residence.

"Manitoba Health’s Palliative Care Drug Access Program respects the dignity of people in the final stages of life by supporting their decision to be in the place they want to spend their final days," said Chomiak. "By covering the cost of these eligible drugs for use in the home, a major financial burden is removed for these patients and their families. This is particularly important when the focus of care is on comfort."

The minister pointed out that individuals who choose a hospital or personal care home for the final days of their life have their drug costs covered by the health care system. Manitoba Health has now established a program so that the same drug coverage will apply to patients who choose to die at home or in another residence.

The PCDAP is open to residents of Manitoba who have a current Manitoba Health registration number. To apply for the program, the patient and physician jointly complete an application which is then submitted by the physician to the regional palliative care co-ordinator. The palliative care co-ordinator reviews the registration form to ensure the patient meets all criteria.

Patients who meet the criteria are registered with the PCDAP and are able to receive their eligible prescriptions free of charge at the pharmacy of their choice. Participants remain eligible for coverage as long as necessary.

"This program was developed after considerable consultation with professionals and volunteers who work with terminally ill patients," said Chomiak. "We agree with their advice that it is a positive move to shift some palliative care services from a hospital setting to a home environment where patients can end their days in familiar surroundings cared for by loved ones."

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