Nova Scotia Pharmacare is a set of subsidized provincial drug programs that help with the cost of prescription drugs and some medical supplies. It includes the Family Pharmacare Program for all eligible residents and the Seniors' Pharmacare Program for those 65 and older, with costs shared based on income.
Last reviewed: September 2026
Useful Tips for Applying
Co-pays and premiums are income-based. Family Pharmacare caps your annual drug costs. Keep your receipts.
Who May Qualify
Nova Scotia residents. Family Pharmacare is for those without other coverage who have high drug costs; Seniors' Pharmacare is for residents 65 and over.
Required Documents
A filed income tax return and the application.
How to Apply
Apply through the Nova Scotia Department of Health and Wellness and register each year. Register for the Family Pharmacare Program at https://www.novascotia.ca/register-family-pharmacare-program. You must have a valid Nova Scotia Health Card and agree to income verification through the CRA.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Not registering each year. Assuming only seniors qualify — Family Pharmacare is for all ages.
Preparing an application?
The Application Helper walks you through each question on this benefit's form in plain language.
Atlantic Canada (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland and Labrador)
Independent Living Nova Scotia (ILNS) operates a federally funded Disability Benefits Navigation service. ILNS DTC Navigators provide free, bilingual, one-to-one support to help people with disabilities and their families across Atlantic Canada (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador) apply for the Disability Tax Credit and related federal and provincial benefits.
Plan Institute is a Canadian non-profit and registered charity that helps people with disabilities and their families plan for a good life. Its free national Disability Planning Helpline offers one-on-one support with the Disability Tax Credit (DTC), the Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP), the Canada Disability Benefit, wills and trusts, and future and financial planning. Plan Institute also offers free webinars and online courses on the RDSP, DTC, and building personal support networks. The helpline is free, confidential, and available across Canada by phone, email, and online request form.
Languages: English, Interpretation in ASL and other languages on request
The GAIN Program (Guidance & Assistance in Navigating Disability Support) is a free service offered by Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada (VLRC). VLRC's Disability Benefit Navigators provide one-to-one support to help people with disabilities understand and apply for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC), the Canada Disability Benefit (CDB), and other federal, provincial and territorial credits and benefits, including help with appeals. Although operated by VLRC, the GAIN Program assists people with all disabilities, not only vision loss.
Accessible Compass is an independent guide — we are not a government agency and do not process applications or approve benefits. We provide general information only, not legal, medical, or financial advice. Program rules may change. Always confirm with official government sources.
