Lemtrada in Canada

[Corriel]

Hi folks! A colleague of mine has RRMS that is progressing quickly and her neuro is looking to switch her to Lemtrada after 2 other DMDs were not helping.

We live in New Brunswick and the drug is still under review with our provincial drug plan and it is not an approved treatment on our regular medical insurance at work.

The only option I can think of is assistance through the drug company but I was wondering if any fellow Canucks knew of how long the wait is for a typical review under a provincial health plan? I called our plan here but could not even get a time frame for the process.

Thanks very much!
Corrie

[Corriel]

Thanks DV! The employer insurance does not cover it and I was wondering if she had tried Tysabri too so I am trying to find out.

Thanks for sharing the contact info.  I haven't dealt with her directly because she is not my client for HR purposes but my colleague picks my brain when she can so we can find something to help the lady out.

C.

[doublevision1]

Also....have they tried Tysabri yet? I would think it must be covered universally.

[doublevision1]

Have they investigated whether their employer drug plan covers it?

Re: approval for government coverage, I think some of the latest ones have been approved fairly quickly. Every province and territory has their own process so time frames vary.

This is from the MS Society website:

COST REIMBURSEMENT
Genzyme is currently working closely with private and public payers to ensure Lemtrada will be accessible to all individuals who need it. The Common Drug Review advises whether or not a drug is cost effective and should be covered by public drug programs. Provincial drug programs then use this information in making their decisions. It should be noted that Quebec conducts its own review, independent of the CDR. Please call 1-800-268-7582 for additional information on reimbursement in your province. For additional information about Lemtrada, please contact MS One to One™, at 1-855-MS1-2ONE (1-855-671-2663). Please discuss any other questions about treatment options with your physician.