OTTAWA,
ON, July 17, 2024 /CNW/ - Innovative Medicines
Canada (IMC) is committed to working with and supporting provincial
governments to ensure Canada's
healthcare system is equipped with the most advanced
treatments. As premiers from across the country meet for the
Council of the Federation to advance shared priorities, IMC echoes
the call from Ontario Premier Ford
to give patients the same timely access to life-saving treatments
as patients in the rest of the world.
"Canadians deserve access to the latest innovative medications
and healthcare advancements that can significantly enhance their
quality of life and lifespan. This is particularly crucial for
patients with rare diseases or those who have exhausted all
existing treatment options," said Bettina
Hamelin, President of IMC. "Provinces, territories, and the
federal government have a unique opportunity to collaborate and
create a meaningful impact for Canadian patients and their
families. The decision to act should be unequivocal."
Existing access barriers mean that less than 20 per cent of new
medicines launched globally are available on Canadian public plans.
Furthermore, it currently takes on average more than 2 years
following a launch for a given drug to be available to Canadians
through public drug plans —that's almost double the average time of
access amongst Canada's 20 OECD
peer countries, and places us last in the G7. For rare disease
drugs, according to the Canadian Organization for Rare Disorders'
recent testimony at the federal Health Committee, the approval
process alone in Canada can take
up to six years longer than in the U.S. or Europe.
"IMC is pleased that this important issue is being discussed in
Halifax and we are committed to
working with provincial and federal governments on solutions that
accelerate access to new treatments for all Canadians," Hamelin
added.
About Innovative Medicines Canada
Innovative Medicines Canada is the national association
representing the voice of Canada's
innovative pharmaceutical industry. The association advocates for
policies that enable the discovery, development, and delivery of
innovative medicines and vaccines to improve the lives of all
Canadians and supports the members' commitment to being a valued
partner in the Canadian healthcare system. The association
represents 47 companies that help fuel Canada's knowledge-based economy. Guided by
the Code of Ethical Practices, all members work with governments,
private payers, healthcare professionals, and stakeholders in a
highly ethical manner.
SOURCE Innovative Medicines Canada