The rates in effect for the public drug insurance plan are normally adjusted annually on July 1st. Last July, given the difficult context brought on by the pandemic, RAMQ announced that it would limit it’s premium adjustment to +1.9% instead of the +5% that was originally called for. This transitional adjustment was to remain in effect until the end of 2021.
Rates in effect from January 1, 2021 to July 1, 2021
- The maximum annual contribution increased from $ 648 to $ 662 per person (based on net family income)
- The monthly deductible increased from $ 21.75 to $22.25
- The coinsurance decreased from 37% to 35%
- The maximum monthly contribution remained $ 95.31 (for people aged 65 or over who receive between 1% and 93% of the Guaranteed Income Supplement, the maximum monthly contribution is $ 54.83)
The following individuals continue to be insured free of charge:
- Children of people covered by the public plan (children under 18 or full-time students under 26)
- Persons with a functional impairment that occurred before the age of 18
- Holders of a valid claim slip
- Persons aged 65 and over who receive 94% to 100% of the Guaranteed Income Supplement.
RAMQ publishes “Rates Explained” to summarize the plan costs. This document is also often available in pharmacy.
No action required for employers
When purchasing prescription drugs, employees and their dependents covered by a group insurance plan must not pay an amount that exceeds the maximum contribution set by the RAMQ. As of January 1, 2021, the maximum annual contribution remains unchanged at $ 1,144. The maximum contribution is managed by the insurers and does not require any intervention from the plan sponsors.
