Does Manitoba Pharmacare cover medical alert devices?

Manitoba Pharmacare is a provincial drug benefit program that helps Manitoba residents with the cost of eligible prescription drugs. It operates on a deductible system based on household income - once your deductible is met, Pharmacare covers 100% of eligible drug costs for the rest of the year.

Medical alert devices and monitoring subscriptions are not prescription drugs and are entirely outside the scope of Manitoba Pharmacare. There is no category within Pharmacare that covers personal emergency response systems.

Where to look instead: Manitoba's Home Care program is the most relevant provincial resource for seniors who need help accessing or funding safety monitoring equipment. Home Care coordinators work with clients to identify needs and available supports. If you are not currently receiving Home Care services, your family doctor can initiate a referral, or you can contact your regional Health Authority directly.

For Winnipeg residents: Contact the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority (WRHA) Home Care program.
For rural Manitoba: Contact your Regional Health Authority (Prairie Mountain Health, Southern Health-Sante Sud, Interlake-Eastern RHA, or Northern Health Region) depending on your community.

Community resources: Many Manitoba communities have local aging-in-place initiatives, seniors centres, and community health organizations that can assist with navigating available supports. The 211 Manitoba line (call 211 or visit mb.211.ca) connects you with local community services.

Federal supports: The Medical Expense Tax Credit (METC) on your federal income tax return may allow you to claim medical alert device costs. A tax professional can confirm eligibility.

Pharmacare renewal does not affect your eligibility for Home Care or other non-drug supports - these are separate programs.