Published in The Toronto Star on December 3, 2008

Dear Editor,

Canadians have spoken out loud and clear on the dismal state of drug access in this country (Drug coverage a costly patchwork full of holes, December 2, 2008). Furthermore, the conclusion that access to important treatments varies from province to province is accurate. Indeed, this situation demands immediate attention by policy makers. These challenges warrant a thoughtful, made-in-Canada approach, allocating our valuable healthcare dollars efficiently where they are most needed. We caution against importing international models which focus on cost cutting often at the expense of patient care and health outcomes. With recent advancements, drugs are often the cornerstone of medical treatment in lieu of costly in-patient hospital care.

-- Linda Wilhelm, Chair, Best Medicines Coalition