Alzheimer’s Drug Therapy Initiative - Information for Individuals and Caregivers

British Columbia is now providing PharmaCare coverage of donepezil (Aricept®), galantamine (Reminyl®) and rivastigmine (Exelon®) through the Alzheimer’s Drug Therapy Initiative.

These drugs do not cure Alzheimer’s disease but may slow its progression in some people diagnosed in the mild to moderate stages of the disease.

Although this treatment is not appropriate for everyone, determining whether it is right for you requires an assessment by your physician. Your physician can determine through a series of questions if you are eligible to participate in the initiative.

If you already take one of these drugs and your doctor confirms that you meet the eligibility criteria, your PharmaCare coverage will begin as soon as Special Authority approval is granted, subject to your PharmaCare plan rules and deductible.

If you are approved for PharmaCare coverage, you will need to be reassessed by your doctor every 6 months to make sure the medication is still working for you. It is important to make a follow-up appointment no less than 2 weeks before your existing Special Authority approval ends to avoid any break in coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Initiative.

Research

B.C.’s leading experts in the fields of dementia and aging are conducting the research associated with the Alzheimer’s Drug Therapy Initiative. The results of their research will provide PharmaCare with the information it needs to make decisions that support British Columbians affected by Alzheimer’s disease.

General Contact Information for Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer Society of B.C. is your best source of information and support. Please contact their Dementia Hotline toll-free at 1 800 936-6033 or, if you are calling from the Lower Mainland, 604 681-8651. Their website also provides valuable information for individuals and caregivers to help manage this disease (see links below).

Alzheimer Society of B.C. Programs and Services (view brochure):

Dementia Helpline

Dementia Education

  • Family Caregiver Series – for family members who are caring for a person with dementia
  • Shaping the Journey: living with dementia™ for people with dementia and their care partners
  • Life After Diagnosis – an introductory session for people with dementia, care partners and family members
  • Workshops are also offered on a variety of topics from time of diagnosis to end of life

First Link

  • an early intervention service designed to connect individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s disease  or a related dementia with services and support as soon as possible after diagnosis

Minds in Minds in Motion™

  • a fitness and social program for people experiencing early stage memory loss due to Alzheimer’s disease or a related dementia and a friend, family member or care partner

Support Groups

  • caregivers
  • people in the early stages of dementia

Information Services - web/print:

Information Bulletins

Caring for Someone with Dementia

I Have Dementia

 

Your PharmaCare Coverage: