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

We’re adding Manitoba to the list of provinces under our existing Provincial Biosimilar Program. After the end of the transition period, Sun Life will no longer cover the cost of an originator biologic if it’s part of the program. Plan members have the choice to keep taking their current biologic drug or switch to a biosimilar drug. Exceptions apply for plan members and their eligible dependents who can’t use a biosimilar because of a medical reason.

To continue receiving drug coverage from Sun Life, plan members and their eligible dependents 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.

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.