The Ontario Pharmacists Association (OPA) will be implementing a premium change to the Group Health Insurance Program, effective October 1, 2026. This premium adjustment is intended to ensure sustainable health coverage for our members.
Since drug coverage was removed on January 1, 2026, the program’s financial performance has improved significantly. This progress helped moderate the 2026 renewal; however, ongoing healthcare inflation and claims for the remaining benefits still require a premium adjustment to maintain the program’s sustainability.
Following a review of the financial performance for the contract year ending June 30, 2026, Desjardins proposed a moderate premium increase to bring the program in line and support current claim volumes. Through negotiations led by our consultant, Cowan Benefits Ltd., the adjustment was reduced to an average rate of +5.3% across all benefits.
OPA remains committed to balancing affordability while minimizing the financial impact on members to ensure value of the coverage provided is maintained.
In addition, we are actively evaluating potential plan enhancements and changes that will better meet the evolving needs of both current and prospective members.
Should you have any questions or require further clarification, please do not hesitate to contact our Customer Experience Team at 416-441-0788 option 2.
