Quebec's Public Prescription Drug Insurance Plan (RAMQ)
Last reviewed 2026-09-24
Prescription drug insurance is mandatory in Quebec. If you have access to a private group plan (for example through work or your spouse's work), you must join it. If you don't, you must register with the public plan run by the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ).
What you pay under the public plan
- An annual premium, paid with your Quebec income tax return and based on family income.
- A monthly deductible, then coinsurance (a percentage of each prescription).
- A monthly and annual maximum contribution that caps your out-of-pocket costs.
- Amounts are updated each July 1.
Who pays nothing
- Children under 18 and full-time students under 26 living with their parents, when covered under a parent's plan.
- People receiving last-resort financial assistance.
- Seniors 65+ receiving the maximum Guaranteed Income Supplement.
Frequently asked questions
Can I choose RAMQ instead of my employer's plan?
No. If you're eligible for a private group plan, Quebec law requires you to join it.
Are seniors automatically covered by RAMQ?
Quebecers are automatically registered at 65 unless they choose to stay on an available private plan.
Official sources
This guide is general information, not medical or financial advice. Program rules and amounts change — confirm with the official source or your pharmacist.