Members’ Health Plan $10 Drug Deductible Effective July 1, 2025

Earlier this year, the Pension and Benefits Board of Directors began reviewing the benefits under the Members’ Health Plan. Every three to five years, the Board conducts a full and complete examination of the Plan’s benefits, design and funding. The last review took place in 2022.

The review takes into consideration Council resolutions and teacher feedback on the benefit plans and analyzes the impact of proposed benefit changes on funding levels while also comparing the benefits to industry standards. Due to rising costs of drugs and healthcare in Canada it has been determined the Plan’s design will need changes to remain sustainable and stable in the long term; therefore, the Board will be implementing a $10-per-script drug deductible effective July 1, 2025.

How This Change Affects You:

• This deductible will be applied at the pharmacy each time you fill a prescription.

• You can work with your pharmacist to see if your prescriptions are eligible for 90-day refills, which would reduce the number of times you have to pay the deductible.

Implementing a $10 deductible does not solve the problem, but it buys the Board of Directors and STF Executive some time to determine a long-term solution. Drugs represent approximately 50 percent of the total cost for the Plan and a $10 deductible will save the Plan approximately $3 million per year.

We understand that this change may raise some questions, and we are committed to supporting you through this transition. Members’ Health Plan staff are available to assist you with any questions you may have regarding this update. You can reach them at 306-373-1660, 1-800-667-7762 or [email protected].