Drugs for Rare Diseases – Ontario Agreement
January 24, 2025
Toronto, ON – The Ontario government has reached an agreement with the Canadian Organization for Rare Disorders (CORD) to improve access to drugs for rare diseases. The agreement will see the province invest $100 million over five years to create a new Rare Disease Drug Program.
The program will provide funding for drugs that are not covered by public drug plans or private insurance. It will also cover the cost of genetic testing to diagnose rare diseases.
“This is a major step forward for the rare disease community in Ontario,” said CORD CEO Durhane Wong-Rieger. “This program will give patients access to the treatments they need, regardless of their ability to pay.”
The Rare Disease Drug Program will be administered by the Ontario Drug Benefit program. Drugs will be eligible for coverage if they are:
- Approved by Health Canada for the treatment of a rare disease
- Not covered by public drug plans or private insurance
- Cost-effective
Patients will be able to apply for coverage through the Ontario Drug Benefit program.
The Ontario government is also working with the federal government to improve access to drugs for rare diseases. In 2022, the federal government announced a new Rare Disease Strategy that includes funding for drug research and development.
“We are committed to working with the federal government and other stakeholders to improve the lives of people with rare diseases,” said Ontario Health Minister Sylvia Jones. “This agreement is a step in the right direction.”
The Rare Disease Drug Program is expected to launch in 2026.
About Rare Diseases
Rare diseases are conditions that affect fewer than 1 in 2,000 people. There are over 7,000 known rare diseases, and they can affect any part of the body.
Rare diseases can be difficult to diagnose and treat. Many rare diseases are progressive, meaning that they get worse over time. There is often no cure for rare diseases, but treatments can help to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
About CORD
CORD is a national organization that represents the interests of people with rare disorders. CORD provides information and support to patients and families, and advocates for policies that improve access to care.
For More Information
- Ontario Drug Benefit program: www.ontario.ca/page/ontario-drug-benefit-program
- Canadian Organization for Rare Disorders: www.raredisorders.ca
- Government of Canada Rare Disease Strategy: www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/drugs-health-products/rare-diseases/strategy.html
Drugs for Rare Diseases – Ontario Agreement
The AI has provided us with the news.
I’ve asked Google Gemini the following question, and here’s its response.
Canada All National News a new article on 2025-01-24 12:55 titled “Drugs for Rare Diseases – Ontario Agreement”. Please write a detailed article on this news item, including any relevant information. Answers should be in English.
145