Author Interviews, CMAJ, Race/Ethnic Diversity / 23.03.2026
Canadian Black Adults Less Likely to Have Prescription Drug Coverage and More Likely to Skip Meds Due to Costs
MedicalResearch.com Interview with:
[caption id="attachment_72842" align="alignleft" width="200"] Bukola Salami, Ph.D.[/caption]
Bukola Salami, RN, BScN, MN, PhD, FCAN, FAAN (She/Her)
Full Professor
Canada Research Chair (Tier 1) in Black and Racialized Peoples Health
Department of Community Health Sciences
Cumming School of Medicine
University of Calgary
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: Black people experience disproportionately poor health outcomes, with access to healthcare recognized as a key determinant of health. Although prior research has examined factors influencing healthcare access among Black populations, there is limited evidence on medication access and use. This gap is particularly important in the context of emerging Pharmacare policy in Canada. In this study, we aimed to assess the prevalence of cost-related prescription nonadherence among Black adults in Canada and to examine racial disparities in comparison to White adults, while accounting for demographic, socioeconomic, and insurance-related factors as potential mediators.
Bukola Salami, Ph.D.[/caption]
Bukola Salami, RN, BScN, MN, PhD, FCAN, FAAN (She/Her)
Full Professor
Canada Research Chair (Tier 1) in Black and Racialized Peoples Health
Department of Community Health Sciences
Cumming School of Medicine
University of Calgary
MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
Response: Black people experience disproportionately poor health outcomes, with access to healthcare recognized as a key determinant of health. Although prior research has examined factors influencing healthcare access among Black populations, there is limited evidence on medication access and use. This gap is particularly important in the context of emerging Pharmacare policy in Canada. In this study, we aimed to assess the prevalence of cost-related prescription nonadherence among Black adults in Canada and to examine racial disparities in comparison to White adults, while accounting for demographic, socioeconomic, and insurance-related factors as potential mediators.