Optimizing Access to Cancer Drugs for Canadians

When: Tuesday, September 15, 2009 - 08:00 – 16:00

Where: National Arts Centre, Ottawa

Drugs are an important part of cancer treatment, yet patients often lack access to the most effective medicines. This one-day symposium focused on the key issues that affect Canadians' access to cancer drugs, including:

• Inequities in coverage by private and public drug plans;
• Lack of pan-Canadian standards for coverage of specific cancer drugs; and
• The impact of high prices for newer cancer drugs on patient access and the sustainability of the system.

Participants considered how Canada's aging population and the rising cost of cancer treatments, by placing a greater strain on limited health resources, are diminishing Canadians' access to cancer drugs; and in turn, they discussed what actions might be taken to meet these challenges and optimize access.

The invitation-only event brought together leaders from key government departments, NGOs, employer and union health groups, patients and the research community.

For more information, please contact Matt LeBlanc.