Manulife has enhanced its Specialty Drug Care program with the addition of another partner – Shoppers Drug Mart.

The Specialty Drug Care program is aimed at helping Manulife Group Benefits customers by giving them convenient access to higher cost specialty medications, as well as extra care and support for patients managing complex medical conditions such as cancer, cystic fibrosis, and multiple sclerosis. Members participating in the program will also have access to nurse case managers who can provide education on specialty drugs and coaching on medical conditions and lifestyle choices; facilitate discussions between doctors and patients; offer prescription renewal reminders; and coordinating infusion appointments and/or injection training and drug deliveries.

The program also provides financial savings to plan sponsors and members, on top of dispensing and delivery options.

“Shoppers Drug Mart is a great addition to Manulife’s Specialty Drug Care program,” said Manulife vice president of group benefits products and digital experiences Kim MacFarlane. “It strengthens a program that already consistently receives customer satisfaction scores of 96 to 97% and integrating Shoppers with our existing network will have direct benefits for customers through an expanded list of medications, and even more expert advice and guidance.” 

“Our purpose aligns with Manulife’s as we look to help Canadians live life well,” added Shoppers Drug Mart senior director of drug plan solutions Uchenwa Genus. “Through this program, we’ll be able to further deliver on that purpose, making care and medications more accessible, convenient and seamless. Together we’re helping to create a healthier Canada.”

Read more: Manulife develops “first of its kind” program

Last month, Manulife announced that it would expand its Vitality program to all new core product customers from November. Through Vitality, Manulife customers can track health data and earn rewards for engaging with the program.