If it is true, as the pundits suggest, that the federal government has switched into a take charge, pre-election mode, then I say bring it on. Let’s look at one issue that matters to all Canadians at some point in their lives. Why is it that a drug can be fully publicly funded in one province, on a restricted formulary in another and completely unattainable in others? Why can’t being Canadian stand for equal and equitable access?

This area of access to life-improving and life-saving medications is a virtual treasure trove of issues. Government officials need to take a close look at what things are wrong within the system, and where and what changes are necessary so that patients get what they need. After all, the health ministry exists because Canadians have health issues. In our logical world, it makes sense that those most affected by decisions should be a pivotal part of the decision-making process.

Patient voices are ringing out loud and clear but decision-makers must be wearing earplugs. For example, let’s consider the Common Drug Review (CDR), the body that reviews new drugs and provides recommendations on whether those drugs warrant listing on provincial formularies for public reimbursement (with the exception of Quebec, which does not participate). The effectiveness of the CDR was the subject of a review by the federal Standing Committee on Health, which wound up this past June.

Motivated by a desire to get Canadians the medications they need, throughout the committee hearings patients (including myself representing an alliance of patient and consumer groups and individuals) presented strong evidence in support of massive reform of the CDR. Common trends emerged in patient testimony including extensive criticism that the CDR seems to be driven by cost-containment, not patient health. By applying narrow and draconian criteria in its reviews, it effectively limits access to crucial drugs that are often largely available worldwide. These actions beg the question: Is the purpose of the CDR to save public drug formularies money or to look out for the health of Canadians?

Scientific evidence proving efficacy and safety of a medication is unquestionably an important piece of the puzzle. As important is the patient’s right to understand the benefits and risks involved in taking a medication and being able to exercise his or her own choice. Since all patients are different from each other, it is crucial that the government gatekeepers do not narrow the opening so much that nothing passes through. The result of having nothing? No choice, no hope and higher hospital costs and mortality rates.

The Standing Committee on Health’s report on the future of the CDR will be before Parliament this Fall. Many patient groups have called for dismantling of the CDR or for drastic reforms. In remembering that the whole purpose of having a health ministry is to take care of citizens’ health, what better opportunity for this government to take action and display a refreshing and responsive new approach to governing our country for its people. Therefore, to Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Health Minister Tony Clement, we say, patients are standing before you clearly stating that what other governments have concocted is not working. Do you dare to stand as the government who listened to the people and changed the course of Canadian healthcare history? You can do it with the help of patients. You have our vote to do it.

Louise Binder is the chair of the Best Medicines Coalition.