karelnoppe / Depositphotos.com
Ontario is taking a major step forward in cancer care with the launch of the Funding Accelerated for Specific Treatments (FAST) program. The new initiative makes Ontario the first in Canada to fast-track access to breakthrough cancer drugs, giving patients life-saving treatments almost a year sooner.
Deputy Premier and Minister of Health Sylvia Jones said the three-year pilot program will help thousands of Ontarians facing cancer by reducing delays and putting patients first.
Through FAST, seven to ten high-priority cancer drugs approved each year by Health Canada will reach patients more quickly under the Project Orbis international pathway.
Unlike traditional models that wait for lengthy pricing negotiations, FAST allows public funding to begin while talks continue, ensuring faster access to innovative therapies.
This initiative is part of Your Health: A Plan for Connected and Convenient Care, which aims to deliver faster, more connected care for Ontarians.