Manitoba implements a biosimilar switching policy

On August 1, 2024, the province of Manitoba implemented the Manitoba Biosimilars Initiative to increase the usage of biosimilar drugs. This policy will transition provincial drug plan coverage of originator biologic medications to biosimilar versions.

As of January 31, 2025, the province will delist certain reference originator biologic drugs from its eligible drug list. Plan members need to discuss any questions about biosimilars and what’s right for them with their health care provider.

What this change means for plan members

By the end of the transition period, to keep their coverage under the Manitoba Pharmacare Program plan members and their eligible dependents will need to:

• Request a new prescription for the biosimilar version of their medication from their health care provider. Plan members should switch to a biosimilar drug if one is available and medically appropriate.
• Start any new prescriptions with the biosimilar counterpart if medically appropriate. Exceptions apply for plan members and their eligible dependents who can’t use a biosimilar because of a medical reason.

Plan members have the choice to keep taking their current biologic drug or switch to a biosimilar drug. If they choose to remain on their current biologic drug, they’ll no longer receive repayment from the Manitoba Pharmacare program. This may affect plan member costs, if their plan has a co-pay for drug expenses.

We’ll send a letter to all plan members in Manitoba in January 2025. It will outline what this change means for them, their options, and what they need to do.

About Biosimilar drugs

Biosimilars are drugs that are very similar to their originator biologic counterpart. They offer a valuable treatment option to plan members for many different medical conditions.

Questions? We’re here to help.

Please contact your Sun Life Group Benefits representative.