How to access PharmaCare’s Special Authority Program for prescription drugs

One of the most important things you can do to control cost and ensure the sustainability of your benefits plan is to access PharmaCare’s Special Authority program for certain prescription drugs considered limited coverage drugs. For the list of Special Authority drugs, visit health.gov.bc.ca/pharmacare/sa/saindex.html#list

Follow these steps for the Special Authority Program:

Step 1

To benefit from PharmaCare coverage, you must register online on here or by phone at 604 683-7151 (toll-free 1 800 663-7100), Monday to Friday 8 a.m.–8 p.m. and Saturday 8 a.m.–4 p.m

Step 2

Talk to your doctor. Your doctor applies to PharmaCare for Special Authority on your behalf. Forms are available online at here. They must be completed by a physician* and faxed to PharmaCare.

Step 3

PharmaCare notifies your doctor of their decision by fax. You can request a copy of this decision document from your doctor or by calling PharmaCare directly (see Step 1 for phone numbers).

You may be asked to submit it to Pacific Blue Cross if your plan requires PharmaCare documentation before the drug is eligible.

Step 4

Fill your prescription. If your application was approved, PharmaCare will cover all or a portion of your drug cost (once your PharmaCare deductible has been satisfied) for the duration of time indicated on the decision document.

Follow your standard claiming procedure with Pacific Blue Cross.

*Some doctors have automatic Special Authority privileges and are not required to submit a form.