Toronto - The Association of Ontario Health Centres is calling on all federal parties to commit to universal prescription drug coverage. The call, directed at the federal Liberal and Conservative parties, comes following commitments from the NDP and the Greens that, if elected, they will move forward with publicly funded programs to ensure Canadians can access the medicine they need.The Association represents 109 community-governed Primary Health Care organizations throughout the province, most of which prioritize populations living on low incomes."The high cost of prescription medicines is a huge problem for people who don't have, or can't afford drug coverage. We hear so many stories from our members, such as people forced to choose between paying hydro bills and buying insulin," said Adrianna Tetley, CEO of the Association of Ontario Health Centres. "That's why we like what we've heard from the NDP and the Green party. We call on Mr. Trudeau and Prime Minister Harper to make the same commitment and to work with the provinces to develop a publicly administered national drug coverage plan."Specifically the NDP has promised a $2.6 billion investment to support universal prescription drug coverage and bulk purchasing designed to reduce drug costs. The Green Party has promised to expand public health care to cover prescription medications for all Canadians, and dental coverage for low income children and youth - a significant commitment.The Association of Ontario Health Centres and the Canadian Association of Community Health Centres are among eight lead partners in the www.campaign4nationaldrugcoverage.ca which calls for a national drug coverage plan which is public, affordable and safe. To date the campaign has been endorsed by almost 100 organizations across the country.