PRINCE GEORGE- The province made history during the provincial budget.
Finance Minister Katrine Conroy announced just a few weeks ago that PharmaCare would cover all prescribed contraception as of April 1.
Contraceptives included in the new legislation are copper IUDs, hormonal IUDs, hormone injections, Hormone Implants, Oral Contraceptives better known as the pill and Emergency oral Contraceptives also known as the morning-after pill.
Dr. Zoe Meletis, A Co-founder of Inspiring Women Among Us spoke to CKPG News Today about the impact this new legislation will have throughout the province.
“It’s going to mean happier, freer, more in-control people. Which all sounds good to me.”
However, there are still barriers. Most of the products covered are considered generic.
Contraceptives such as Condoms, diaphragms, patches, rings and Sponges are not covered.
Those in opposition believe this legislation is a good start, but more work will come.
“We’re going to make sure that we understand that all contraception will be covered because we want to make sure that this is part of gender equality,” said Renee Merrifield, the BC Liberal Shadow Minister for Gender Equity.
Merrifield and Dr. Meletis stressed that education is essential when talking about contraceptives. Mentioning other uses such as maintaining menstrual Cycles, preventing cramps and even reducing acne.
