Manitoba dispensing fees now in effect, province promises relief in exceptional cases

For patients covered under Manitoba's publicly-funded drug plan, dispensing fees charged by pharmacies will be capped at $30 per prescription. Compounding fees will also be capped at $30 for non-sterile preparations and no more than $60 for sterile preparations. Patients will be responsible for any costs over and above those limits. However, the provincial government is encouraging patients to shop around and find out which pharmacies may offer better pricing. As well, in cases where more complex dispensing services are required, the program may make exceptions on a case by case basis. The Manitoba government is also allowing a grace period for pharmacies to adjust their billing practices.