The BC Smoking Cessation Program
The BC Smoking Cessation Program helps people stop smoking or using other tobacco products by assisting them with the cost of smoking cessation aids. The program covers selected prescription smoking cessation drugs as benefits under PharmaCare. Selected non-prescription nicotine replacement therapy products (NRTs) are provided at no cost. The program is open to B.C. residents who wish to stop smoking or using other tobacco products.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW for now
- The BC Smoking Cessation Program starts on Friday September 30, 2011.
You can take part in the program any time after September 30. There is no planned end date to the program. - The program covers 2 prescription smoking cessation drugs (bupropion – brand name Zyban® and varenicline – brand name Champix®) under the PharmaCare program. You should schedule an appointment to see your doctor to discuss whether a prescription drug is the best choice for you. You do not need to register through HealthLink BC at 811 for the prescription drugs.
- The program also provides 100% coverage for 2 strengths of Thrive™ NRT gum and 3 strengths of Habitrol® NRT patches. You can register for NRT coverage through HealthLink BC at 811 starting Friday September 30.
- You may want to talk to your pharmacist or doctor first before deciding whether you should take NRT products. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have any chronic medical conditions, were recently in the hospital, or take any regular medications, please check with your pharmacist or doctor before calling 811 to register for NRT coverage.
BEFORE YOU START
You are encouraged to browse QuitNow.ca's resources to plan your quit before getting your smoking cessation aids. To increase your chances of success, first work out a plan, and then decide on a quit date. When you are ready, the program will be there for you.
To learn more about the program and how you can take part, visit the PharmaCare website. Detailed program information for patients will be available on September 30. It includes:
- how the program works
- what prescription drugs and nicotine gum and patches are covered
- how much coverage you can get in a year
- how to get started (including what information you will need to provide)
- how to get refills