On 11 January 2022, the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (CADTH) posted a discussion paper regarding the proposed framework for a potential pan-Canadian formulary (for further details, see "Potential pan-Canadian formulary: discussion paper and online questionnaire"). The pan-Canadian Advisory Panel has posted further information, including respondent feedback and focus group feedback. The Final Report: Building Toward a Potential Pan-Canadian Formulary was released in June 2022, together with summary highlights.

Highlights of the panel's recommendations are:

  • six principles for the formulary:
    • universal and integrated;
    • equitable;
    • effective, safe, and high quality;
    • sustainable;
    • efficient and timely; and
    • inclusive, transparent, with fair process.
  • a potential pan-Canadian formulary should:
    • be a dynamic and living system that involves multiple perspectives;
    • be aligned with, if not integrated into, other elements of the health system;
    • be equitable and support a distinction-based approach that promotes self-determination;
    • incorporate evidence that considers diverse populations, perspectives, and experiences;
    • be aligned with current evidence;
    • be sustainable; and
    • adopt systems and process efficiencies, including providing simplified points of access for related products and exploring a hybrid submission review model.
  • taking a staged approach to develop a potential pan-Canadian formulary;
  • building public trust through transparent decision-making; and
  • ensuring accountability and reason-driven decision-making.

For further information on this topic please contact Urszula Wojtyra at Smart & Biggar by telephone (+1 416 593 5514) or email ([email protected]). The Smart & Biggar website can be accessed at www.smartbiggar.ca.