BC Pharmacare is the province's drug insurance program that assists British Columbia residents in paying for eligible prescription drugs and designated medical supplies. For hospital inpatients, drugs are an expense of the hospital system. Once the patient is discharged, Pharmacare becomes the responsible agency, within the terms of established eligibility requirements. As drug therapy is an essential part of many people's medical care, Pharmacare is an integral component of the health system which serves British Columbians.