The federal government has tabled legislation before parliament outlining, in broad terms, a new national pharmacare framework.

Bill C-64 lays out some of the fundamental principals of the plan, which will provide universal coverage for diabetes medications and contraception.

Diabetes coverage will include syringes and glucose test strips, while an estimated 9 million Canadians of reproductive age will be able to avail of a range of contraceptive drugs and devices.

The national pharmacare plan was developed through a deal reached between the governing Liberals and the NDP.

Federal Health Minister Mark Holland admits it was a rough road.

“It’s rare in politics,” says Holland, “there were many moments when I think both of us wondered if we’d get here today, but we did.”

The bill must first be passed in the House of Commons before it’s enacted.