Residents of Manitoba will soon have access to no-cost birth control thanks to a universal contraception program recently introduced by the NDP government.
“Prescription birth control is a right, not a luxury,” says Health Minister Uzoma Asagwara. “Money should never be a barrier to accessing reproductive healthcare. Starting October 1, Manitobans will be able to get some of the most common and effective birth control without having to worry about the cost. This will save people hundreds of dollars and it will ensure you are fully in control of your body and your choices.”
The program will cover about 60 of the most commonly used birth control methods including the pill, intrauterine devices, and hormone injections.
Prescriptions can be obtained through a doctor or nurse practitioner and presented, along with the Manitoba Medical Card, at any pharmacy to have it filled. Manitobans who already have coverage from another federal or provincial program don’t qualify.
“Today’s announcement will ensure that all Manitobans in need will have access to reliable contraception and secures their ability to make a reproductive life plan,” says Dr Jacqueline Gougeon, family physician. “It further empowers women to make decisions around their education and careers that are based solely on their own hopes and dreams and not around unintended pregnancies. This decision represents renewed choice and opportunity for so many of my patients and removes a tremendous barrier to adequate health care and gender equity.”
