Prescription Drugs

The Ontario Drug Benefit Plan seems to be confusing to a number of Members. Ontario residents 65 plus are eligible to purchase those prescription drugs which are on the pharmacy list under the Ontario Drug Benefit Plan, after the ANNUAL DEDUCTIBLE amount of $100.00 PER PERSON has been satisfied - after which only the dispensing fee of $6.11 maximum is charged.

Both the $100.00 deductible amount, and each dispensing fee, are allowable claims under PSHCP, at 80% after the annual deductible amount - single or family, as appropriate has been satisfied. While the PSHCP operates on a calendar year basis from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31, the Ontario Drug Benefit Plan operates on a fiscal year basis from August 1 to July 31.

If you have concerns or questions relating to the PSHCP, I should be pleased to try to provide a satisfactory reply. Telephone: 737-2199 Mon. through Fri. between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Jean Aslin, Health Benefits Officer, Ottawa Branch

15 November, 2004