During the writ period (today until October 28, 2024), this website will be limited to information about emergencies and public safety concerns.
For details on immigration, visit Immigrating and Moving to Saskatchewan.
Get answers with our Frequently Asked Questions.

Pendant la période électorale (aujourd’hui jusqu’au 28 octobre 2024), ce site Web devra limiter ses publications uniquement à des renseignements sur les urgences et à des préoccupations en matière de sécurité publique.
Pour des renseignements sur l’immigration, visitez Immigrer et déménager en Saskatchewan.
Trouver des réponses en consultant la Foire aux questions (en anglais).

Renseignements en français

Google Translate Disclaimer

A number of pages on the Government of Saskatchewan's website have been professionally translated in French. These translations are identified by a yellow box in the right or left rail that resembles the link below. The home page for French-language content on this site can be found at:

Renseignements en Français

Where an official translation is not available, Google™ Translate can be used. Google™ Translate is a free online language translation service that can translate text and web pages into different languages. Translations are made available to increase access to Government of Saskatchewan content for populations whose first language is not English.

Software-based translations do not approach the fluency of a native speaker or possess the skill of a professional translator. The translation should not be considered exact, and may include incorrect or offensive language. The Government of Saskatchewan does not warrant the accuracy, reliability or timeliness of any information translated by this system. Some files or items cannot be translated, including graphs, photos and other file formats such as portable document formats (PDFs).

Any person or entities that rely on information obtained from the system does so at his or her own risk. Government of Saskatchewan is not responsible for any damage or issues that may possibly result from using translated website content. If you have any questions about Google™ Translate, please visit: Google™ Translate FAQs.

Drug Cost Assistance

The Special Support Program is a voluntary income-tested program that helps eligible Saskatchewan residents with their drug costs, in relation to their income. A deductible is established based on total family income and a copayment is calculated based on total family income and total family drug costs. Coverage is determined for a calendar year.

Individuals can use the Special Support Estimate Calculator to estimate their Special Support deductible and copayment based on the income and drug cost information provided. Or scan the following QR code:

QR Code for Special Support Estimate Calculator

Individuals will pay for prescription drugs listed on the Saskatchewan Formulary or approved under Exception Drug Status according to their deductible and copayment.

Ask your physician or pharmacist if your medications may qualify for Exception Drug Status.

Special Support Program - Questions and Answers

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1. Eligibility

The Ministry of Health determines eligibility for the Special Support Program based on eligible prescription drug history and income information provided with the application.

Families who receive the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), Seniors Income Plan (SIP) or Family Health Benefits may apply for the Special Support Program. Individuals with the Seniors' Drug Plan may also apply for the Special Support Program.

Individuals or families with coverage through federal government programs, such as the federal Non-Insured Health Benefits Program or Veterans Affairs, are not eligible for the Special Support Program.

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2. Application

Families or individuals apply to the program by completing the Special Support application form and providing income documentation. Choose an application form at the following links:

  • Fill out the Side A application form to provide your consent to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to release specific income information (Line 15000) to the Ministry of Health, Drug Plan and Extended Benefits Branch. No annual application is required. Your coverage is automatically renewed each year, as long as your income tax return is filed each year.
  • Fill out the Side B application form if you do not file income tax or would rather submit an application with your income documentation each year. In the fall, a renewal application will be mailed to you with instructions on how to renew your coverage.
    • Mail, fax or email your application to the Drug Plan's Special Support Program.
    • You will receive a confirmation of benefits letter when the initial application is processed.
    • Special Support coverage begins on the date the Drug Plan receives your complete application, including income documentation.
    • You are encouraged to complete Side A for automatic annual renewal and to prevent a lapse in coverage.
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3. Confirmation of Coverage

Initial application: You will receive a confirmation of benefits letter after the initial application is processed. The letter is mailed to the address on your Saskatchewan Health Card file.

Renewal:

Side B: You will be required to re-apply each year by submitting a complete application, with supporting income documentation. Renewal letters are mailed once the application is processed.

Side A: Coverage is automatically renewed each year. Letters for the 2025 coverage period will be available after December 1, 2024.

You may request your Special Support letter if coverage is in place. Go to the Request Letter section and enter the nine-digit Health Services Number located on your Saskatchewan Health Card. Select the Program Type as Special Support Program.

 

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If you require a letter for your records, but do not receive the letter after seven days through the online Request Your Special Support letter process, call the Drug Plan at 1-800-667-7581.

Your pharmacy will be aware of your 2025 coverage when your first prescription is filled after January 2025.

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4. Reassessment

If your annual income or medication costs change during the coverage period, you may send a written request for a reassessment of coverage to the ministry's Drug Plan and Extended Benefits Branch, Special Support Program. You must include documentation of income changes.

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5. Other Programs

Seniors may also apply for the Seniors' Drug Plan. Eligible seniors pay $25 for prescriptions listed on the Saskatchewan Formulary or approved under Exception Drug Status.

You will pay the lesser amount depending on other programs. For example:

  • If your medication is $25 per prescription under the Children's Drug Plan, but $11 under the Special Support program, you will continue to pay $11 for that prescription.
  • If your medication is $25 per prescription under the Seniors' Drug Plan, but $11 under the Special Support program, you will continue to pay $11 for that prescription.

There will be no change in coverage for those individuals who have drug coverage under:

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