The Canadian Association of Midwives (CAM) is concerned about recent federal policy changes introducing co-payments for certain health services under the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP). Beginning May 1, 2026, eligible beneficiaries will be required to pay $4 per prescription medication and 30% of the cost of certain supplemental health services, while core physician and hospital services remain covered.
Refugees, asylum claimants, and other people eligible for IFHP already face significant barriers when accessing care in Canada. Introducing new financial barriers during pregnancy and the postpartum period risks delaying or preventing access to essential medications, diagnostics, and supports that protect the health of both parents and babies.
CAM believes that equitable access to maternity care is essential to a healthy society. Policies that create barriers to preventative and community-based care are likely to increase downstream health system costs and worsen health outcomes.
Midwives play a critical role in providing accessible care to refugee and newcomer families across Canada.
