How to Save on Prescription Drugs in the Northwest Territories (2026)

Prescription Drug Coverage in the Northwest Territories

The Northwest Territories (NWT) presents a unique prescription drug landscape. With a small, geographically dispersed population and limited pharmacy infrastructure, residents face challenges that do not exist in southern Canada. However, the territorial government and federal programs provide coverage that is, in many ways, more comprehensive than what is available in most provinces.

NWT Government Drug Programs

The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) offers prescription drug coverage through several programs:

• Extended Health Benefits (EHB): Available to all NWT residents who are not covered by another plan (employer insurance, NIHB, etc.). Covers drugs on the NWT Drug Formulary with a co-pay.
• Specified Disease Conditions Program: Covers medications for chronic conditions including diabetes, epilepsy, and cystic fibrosis. No co-pay for covered drugs.
• Seniors and Elders: NWT residents 60+ receive Enhanced Extended Health Benefits with reduced or eliminated co-pays.
• Metis Health Benefits: The GNWT provides supplementary health benefits, including drug coverage, for eligible Metis residents.

Extended Health Benefits: The Details

EHB is the primary drug program for most non-Indigenous NWT residents without private insurance:

The annual out-of-pocket maximum is a valuable feature, capping your total prescription costs regardless of how many medications you take.

NIHB in the NWT

A large proportion of NWT residents are eligible for the Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) program. This federal program provides comprehensive drug coverage for eligible First Nations and Inuit residents, including:

• Coverage for virtually all prescription medications
• No co-pay in most cases
• Coverage for some over-the-counter products when prescribed
• Additional health benefits (dental, vision, medical transportation)

If you are eligible for NIHB, it should be your primary drug coverage. It is generally more comprehensive than the territorial EHB program.

Metis Health Benefits

The NWT is one of few jurisdictions that provides dedicated health benefits for Metis residents. The Metis Health Benefits program covers:

• Prescription drugs on the NWT formulary
• Co-pay structure similar to EHB
• Available to NWT residents who can provide proof of Metis heritage

Dispensing Fees in the NWT

Pharmacy options in the NWT are extremely limited. Most are located in Yellowknife, with smaller operations in regional centres:

Note: There is no Costco or Walmart Pharmacy in the NWT. Dispensing fees are among the highest in Canada.

Sample Price Comparison: NWT Pharmacies

For a 90-day supply of common generics:

Practical Tips for NWT Residents

Register for EHB if you do not have other coverage. The program is premium-free and caps your annual costs at approximately $500 (individual) or $750 (family).

Check NIHB eligibility if you are First Nations or Inuit. This program is more comprehensive than EHB.

Inquire about Metis Health Benefits if you are Metis. Many eligible residents are not enrolled.

Ask about the Specified Disease Conditions Program if you have a chronic condition. It eliminates co-pays for qualifying medications.

Compare Yellowknife pharmacies using TransparentMedz. Even with limited options, small price differences add up over a year.

Seriously consider mail-order pharmacies. With NWT dispensing fees running $13-$14, a mail-order pharmacy from southern Canada at $4.49 could save you $100+ per year per medication. Use TransparentMedz to find licensed mail-order options.

Request 90-day supplies whenever possible. At $13+ per dispensing fee, the savings from fewer fills are substantial.

Communities Outside Yellowknife

Most NWT communities rely on health centre pharmacies or have medications shipped from Yellowknife. If you live in a smaller community, work with your health centre to ensure your medications are ordered in advance. Mail-order from southern pharmacies can be a cost-effective supplement, and TransparentMedz can help you compare options.