A new treatment for early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) may soon become more accessible to Canadians.
Pembrolizumab (Keytruda) is one step closer to being funded via Canada’s various provincial drug plans for the treatment of adults with operable stage II, IIIA, or IIIB (T3 to 4N2) non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) to be used with chemotherapy before surgery to shrink the cancer and then used on its own after surgery to help keep the cancer from coming back, if certain conditions are met.
The Pan-Canadian Oncology Drug Review Expert Review Committee (pERC) has recommended reimbursement (subject to some conditions) which means pricing negotiations can start and provincial/territorial bodies will consider whether or not to list pemrolizumab on its public drug plan based on its budget, priorities and healthcare needs.
This recommendation represents real progress in improving access to innovative treatments for Canadians living with lung cancer.
We also want to extend a heartfelt thank-you to the patient advocates who contributed their voices and shared their experiences during the review process. Your input truly matters.
Help Shape the Treatments of Tomorrow
If you or a loved one has experienced lung cancer treatment, we want to hear from you. Your insights can help guide future decisions about access to care.
Take action by sharing your lung cancer treatment journey through our advocacy survey!
The Lung Health Foundation encourages you to join one (or both!) of our community networks for resources and support to aid your journey towards driving important policy changes and advocating for better lung health.
Both networks provide a monthly newsletter designed to keep you informed of the types of upcoming opportunities that are most meaningful to you.
Learn more and join:
The Loop – intended for those with lived experience, their caregivers and family members.
LHF Collaborative – designed for health professionals and researchers.
You can also reach out to us directly at advocacy@lunghealth.ca.