Why do I need it?

Many Canadians are under the impression that in Canada we have access to free health care. In reality, although we are funding our health care plans through our tax dollars, this doesn’t mean that you will always be able to get the services you need at no cost to you. Our government health care plan covers physician visits and in-hospital care for most critical illnesses, but essential medication that is taken out-of-hospital is usually not covered for those between age 25 and 64. With some drugs costing as much as $50 for one pill, and depending on the type of disease you are diagnosed with, drug costs and rehabilitative care can severely impact your finances, especially if you need to take a combination of drugs, which could total more than $1,600 a month¹.
¹ Picard, André. "The cost of drugs: Breaking the bank to stay alive." The Globe and Mail, 3 April 2011.

The average Canadian spends roughly $839/person/year on prescription drugs, and this number has increased by 12% since 2005¹. Without group insurance or private health insurance, you could face hefty unexpected expenses if you are diagnosed with an illness that requires you to take one or more drugs on a regular basis.
¹ Canadian institute for health and information, national health expenditure trends, 1975 to 2010.