The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
'We've talked to people in Flin Flon, Brandon, Teulon, Steinbach and Winnipeg who will no longer have to choose between their health and their family's financial well-being.' With those words, Mark McDonald, executive director of the Canadian Cancer Society Manitoba Division, welcomed news the province is making oral cancer drugs free for all Manitobans. As of last week, the Selinger government has eliminated deductibles and is covering the cost of necessary support drugs that cancer patients may need during their treatment. 'This announcement will have a profound impact on Manitoba families battling cancer in every corner of this province,' said McDonald. 'This announcement allows cancer patients to focus their energy on beating cancer rather than worrying about drug costs and putting a financial burden on their family.' In addition to approved oral cancer treatment medications, the province is also fully covering the cost of appropriate cancer support drugs, which include anti-nausea medications to counter side-effects of chemotherapy. 'Our government is proud to be covering the cost of cancer treatment medicine and support drugs for patients at home no matter where they live in our province,' said Premier Greg Selinger. '...we're ensuring that every Manitoban can access world-class cancer care whenever and wherever they need it.' Until last week, the cost of oral cancer medications taken outside of a health facility were the responsibility of the patient, with coverage available through drug plans such as Manitoba Pharmacare with its income-based deductible. Some newer cancer drugs can cost thousands of dollars per month. But effective immediately 'the new Home Cancer Drug Program will cover 100 per cent of the cost of oral cancer treatment and support drugs, with no deductibles,' Health Minister Theresa Oswald said. 'This will also save some patients time and the inconvenience of having to go to the hospital for treatment,' she added. 'They can now take their medication in the comfort of their own home.' Some cancer patients require specialized medications and chemotherapies, which were previously only available in hospitals through intravenous drip or injection. However, over the last few years through medical advancements there have been a growing number of cancer medications and chemotherapy treatments that have become available in oral form. This has allowed patients to take the medicine at home and at their convenience instead of going to the hospital for treatment. 'These new oral cancer drugs are quite expensive, leaving many patients unable to afford them up until today,' said Oswald. 'In the past, many patients have decided to travel to the hospital for treatment because they couldn't afford the oral medication. For some rural patients, this can mean a lot of travel.' According to the Canadian Cancer Society, Manitoba and Saskatchewan are now the only provinces in Canada to fully cover the cost of both oral treatments and support drugs no matter where they are taken. It's estimated that 6,100 Manitobans will be diagnosed with cancer this year. To enrol in the new Home Cancer Drug Program, which covers 100 per cent of eligible oral cancer treatment and support medications, patients should contact CancerCare Manitoba Pharmacy at 204-787-4591. _ Compiled from a Government of Manitoba news release
