Expanding Access to Lifechanging Treatment for Cystic Fibrosis Patients
July 8, 2022Individuals aged six and over can now apply for publicly-funded Trikafta treatment
NIPISSING – Vic Fedeli, MPP for Nipissing announced that the Ontario government has expanded coverage for Trikafta, the latest treatment option for cystic fibrosis, to include all Ontarians aged six and over through its publicly-funded drug program. The province is also changing the eligibility criteria to remove the measurement of patients’ lung function in order to further reduce barriers for cystic fibrosis patients to access lifechanging treatments.
“Our government takes very seriously the struggles that cystic fibrosis patients and their families have with the debilitating effects of this disease and we know there is hope that each new drug may deliver the promised improvement,” said MPP Vic Fedeli. “That’s why it is so important we are moving quickly to support these patients and make decisions based on the best evidence available.”
Previously, treatment was only available to Ontarians aged 12 and over. Following new recommendations by the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technology in Health (CADTH), Ontario is now the first province to expand access to youth aged six to 11. Eligible patients and their families should reach out to their health care team to help determine if Trikafta is the right treatment option for them.
QUICK FACTS
- Cystic fibrosis is a rare and progressive genetic disease that causes thick mucus to build up in the lungs, digestive tract and other parts of the body. It causes persistent lung infections and leads to loss of lung function.
- It is estimated that one in every 3,600 children born in Canada has cystic fibrosis. There is currently no cure for cystic fibrosis.
- An estimated 1,500 Ontarians have cystic fibrosis.
- At list price, Trikafta costs approximately $300,000 per patient per year.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
- Ontario Providing Access to Lifechanging Treatment for Cystic Fibrosis Patients
- Get coverage for prescription drugs
- For public inquiries call ServiceOntario, INFOline at 1-866-532-3161 (Toll-free in Ontario only)