Yukoners diagnosed with alcohol use disorder (AUD) can now apply for exception drug coverage under the Chronic Disease and Disability Benefits Program. The program supports individuals living with a chronic disease or disability by covering costs for prescription drugs and medical equipment. The program has now expanded to include coverage for AUD medications.
Alcohol use disorder is a medical condition with potentially devastating impacts on individuals’ health, work, social lives and families. The Yukon government provides free counselling, safe withdrawal support and intensive treatment programs for those with AUD. The addition of medication coverage will help reduce alcohol cravings, decrease consumption and support sobriety.
This significant advancement aligns with the Government of Yukon’s response to the Substance Use Health Emergency and recommendations from health care providers. It also responds to Yukoners' requests for substance-use medication coverage.
If you or someone you know needs help with alcohol or drug use, seek help at Yukon.ca. Learn more about the Chronic Disease and Disability Benefits Program here.
Alcohol use disorder affects many individuals, with some being more susceptible and facing a higher risk of relapse. To support Yukoners experiencing this condition, our government is expanding the Chronic Disease and Disability Benefits Program to include coverage for alcohol use disorder medications. This will make these medications more accessible to those in need, helping to manage the condition and maintain sobriety. This advancement reflects our government’s commitment to using a people-centered approach to strengthening our health and wellness systems.
Minister of Health and Social Services Tracy-Anne McPhee
The Yukon Pharmacists Association welcomes Insured Health's expansion of the Chronic Disease Program to include alcohol use disorder. The addition of this condition and the two medicines, naltrexone & acamprosate will reduce any cost barrier for those who want help with their drinking, but previously couldn't afford it. Not only can these medicines help people abstain from alcohol completely, but by decreasing cravings, naltrexone can also help those who still drink less. Improving access to these medicines will hopefully increase their use and as a consequence decrease the harm excessive alcohol consumption has on both our patients and our community.
President of the Yukon Pharmacists Association Joanne Gibson
The Chronic Disease and Disability Benefits Program has expanded to include coverage for AUD medications. Yukoners diagnosed with alcohol use disorder (AUD) can now get coverage for medication under the Chronic Disease and Disability Benefits Program.
Exception drug coverage is a type of medication coverage provided by health insurance plans in which an insurer agrees to pay for a specific medication or treatment that is not normally covered under the plan's formulary or drug list.
A health care provider must apply to the program on behalf of an individual.
The Yukon government currently provides free counselling, safe withdrawal support and intensive treatment programs.
The addition of medication coverage will help health care providers prescribe effective and proven treatment options to their patients with alcohol use disorder and reduce cost barriers.
- Naltrexone is recommended for patients with a treatment goal of either abstinence or reducing alcohol consumption.
- Acamprosate is recommended for patients with a goal of abstinence.
Renée Francoeur
Cabinet Communications
867-334-9194
renee.francoeur@yukon.ca
Thibaut Rondel
Communications, Health and Social Services
867-332-7058
thibaut.rondel@yukon.ca