Coverage Tied to Provincial Program
Dr. Hollands serves roughly 1,400 patients across a large rural area stretching from Vernon to Salmon Arm and Nakusp. For 14 years, he has operated a travelling clinic to reach patients who cannot easily travel for care. However, after citing inequities in the Provincial Retinal Disease Treatment Program (PRDTP)—which ties public drug coverage exclusively to its alternative payment plan—Hollands opted out of the program in favor of standard fee-for-service compensation.
Because public drug coverage is linked to participation in the PRDTP, Hollands' departure means his patients will lose access to fully covered medication. These vital treatments can cost up to $600 per eye and are required every four to six weeks, translating to as much as $14,500 annually per patient.
Ministry Stance and Patient Impact
The Ministry of Health expressed disappointment over Hollands' decision to leave the program. The ministry maintains that patients can either transition to another retinal specialist within the PRDTP to receive drugs at no cost or pay out-of-pocket if they choose to remain under Hollands' care. Officials noted that medical travel and transportation supports are available through the ministry and Interior Health.
Hollands argues that many of his elderly patients cannot afford the out-of-pocket costs or endure long-distance travel, leaving them vulnerable to permanent vision loss. He contends that an administrative adjustment to accommodate his patients under standard fee-for-service would be straightforward and cost-neutral, a request he has made to the province since May.
With the coverage deadline approaching, newly elected Vernon-Lumby MLA Kevin Acton has discussed the matter with Hollands and is attempting to secure a temporary extension to allow time for further review once the incoming government takes office.
