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TORONTO – The Ontario government is leading the world in cancer care by launching the Funding Accelerated for Specific Treatments (FAST) program, making Ontario the first jurisdiction in Canada to fast-track access to breakthrough cancer drugs. This bold initiative will connect patients to life-saving cancer treatments almost a full year sooner, reducing delays and improving access to cutting-edge cancer care for years to come.

“For thousands of Ontarians facing a cancer diagnosis, fast access to treatment is critical, which is why our government is transforming cancer care and speeding up access to new and life-changing treatment options,” said Sylvia Jones, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health. “The launch of this historic program is another way we are continuing to lead not only the country, but the world, by putting Ontario patients first, opening the door for faster public access to innovative medicines.”

On average, Canadian patients wait nearly two years to access new publicly funded medicines – a full year longer than patients in other developed countries. This three-year pilot program will expedite access to seven to ten high-priority cancer drugs every year that are approved by Health Canada through the Project Orbis pathway, an international initiative that fast-tracks regulatory approval for promising cancer therapies.

While traditional models wait for lengthy pan-Canadian pricing negotiations and approvals prior to public funding, the FAST program puts patients first by initiating public drug program funding while negotiations proceed. This innovative approach ensures Ontario patients can receive timely access to the life-changing treatments they need. By removing unnecessary delays, Ontario is leading the way in rethinking how cancer care can be delivered, here in Ontario and across the world.

As part of Your Health: A Plan for Connected and Convenient Care, the Ontario government continues to expand access to critical services and innovative treatments ensuring more people receive the right care, including faster access to life-saving cancer therapies, where and when they need it, closer to home.

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"The Funding Accelerated for Specific Treatments program marks an unprecedented milestone in Ontario’s commitment to unlocking new opportunities in the life sciences and accelerating the development of life-saving treatments. Ontario is proud to be the first jurisdiction in Canada to address these long-standing barriers to innovation, and we look forward to seeing this program drive further discovery, attract investment, and set a new benchmark for patient-centered care for our nation."

- The Honourable Vic FedeliMinister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade

"The FAST program exemplifies the power of translational medicine — moving discoveries from the research bench to the patient’s bedside with remarkable speed. At UHN’s Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, we see every day how early access to breakthrough therapies transforms hope, survival, and quality of life. Early access to cancer drugs is fundamental to comprehensive care alongside prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. We applaud the Government of Ontario for its bold leadership in removing barriers and accelerating innovation, raising the bar for equitable, evidence-based cancer care across Canada."

- Dr. Kevin Smith President and CEO, University Health Network

"This is a welcome and much-needed initiative at a crucial time for people living with cancer. Faster access to new and potentially life-saving treatments can make an enormous difference. We are grateful for the Government’s commitment to speeding up the approval process, giving patients and their families the precious gift of time and hope."

- Dr. Keith StewartDirector, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Vice-President Cancer and Laboratory Medicine, University Health Network

"With the launch of the FAST program, Ontario becomes the first province to accelerate patient access to select high-priority cancer medicines for those with the greatest unmet medical need. This initiative highlights Ontario’s leadership and aligns with best practices seen in other countries around the world. Faster access to life-changing treatments leads to better outcomes and improved quality of life for patients with cancer and their families."

- Gaby Bourbara President, AstraZeneca Canada

"For people facing a breast cancer diagnosis, every day is crucial. The Ontario government’s FAST program marks a significant step forward by reducing wait times for access to breakthrough treatments that can change and save lives. By prioritizing timely access, Ontario is setting a strong example for how cancer care can be delivered across the entire country. Breast Cancer Canada applauds Ontario for their bold steps to fast-track innovative cancer treatments and driving the systemic change we need. We will continue to advocate for a health system that prioritizes patients and ensures everyone can benefit from advancements as quickly as possible."

- Kimberly Carson CEO, Breast Cancer Canada

"Sanofi commends the introduction of the Government of Ontario’s FAST program, which represents a critical step forward in accelerating access to breakthrough therapies for people living with cancer. We look forward to supporting the expansion of this initiative to additional therapeutic areas and its replication across Canada, for the benefit of more patients."

- James Guy General Manager, Specialty Care and Country Lead, Sanofi Canada

"The Ontario government's FAST program is an important first step in ensuring that patients receive timely access to potentially life-saving cancer treatments. Initiatives like this are crucial in bridging the gap between scientific advancements and patient care and we commend Ontario’s leadership in prioritizing the needs of cancer patients. At GSK, we are committed to working to accelerate access to innovative medicines and believe that collaborative initiatives and further expansion are essential to improve outcomes for more patients."

- Sridhar VenkateshPresident and General Manager, GSK Canada

"We applaud Ontario’s leadership in launching the FAST program, a bold initiative that will accelerate access to life-saving cancer treatments for patients across the province. The launch of this pathway represents a truly innovative step forward in patient care that sets a new benchmark for access to cancer treatments and improving outcomes for people who need it most. Congratulations on this significant achievement!"

- Alaine Grand Vice President, Market Access and Strategic Customers, Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine, Canada

"The FAST program shows what’s possible when government and industry work together towards a shared goal: getting life-saving cancer medicines to people sooner. By removing unnecessary delays, Ontario is setting a new Canadian standard proving that better access for patients and economic growth can advance together."

- David Jones President and Managing Director, Merck Canada

"Innovative Medicines Canada (IMC) congratulates the Government of Ontario on the launch of the Funding Accelerated for Specific Treatments (FAST) program – a bold step toward faster access to life-saving treatments. By reducing wait times for high-priority therapies by up to a full year, starting with cancer treatments, the government is setting a new national benchmark for patient-centred care. This program demonstrates strong leadership and a commitment to improving health outcomes while strengthening Ontario’s position as a global hub for life sciences innovation. We’re proud to have contributed to its development and look forward to working together to expand its scope, as well as supporting similar efforts across the country."

- Dr. Bettina Hamelin President, Innovative Medicines Canada

"Novo Nordisk Canada applauds the Ontario government’s commitment to fast-tracking access to life-saving medicines. This innovative approach will directly support patient care while setting a powerful precedent to improve health outcomes across Canada."

- Vince Lamanna President, Novo Nordisk Canada Inc.

"At Novartis, we push the boundaries of science every day to bring transformative therapies to patients faster. The FAST program is an important and necessary step forward that does just that: it accelerates access to cancer therapies and puts patients at the heart of the system. We’re proud to support Ontario’s leadership in reimagining cancer care and remain deeply committed to working with government and health partners to ensure breakthrough therapies reach patients sooner, where and when they need them."

- Erin Keith Vice President of Oncology, Novartis Canada

"AbbVie congratulates Ontario on the launch of its FAST pathway for coverage of new cancer medicines. The FAST pilot is a meaningful policy advancement that will help speed life-saving medicines to Ontario cancer patients. We thank Ontario for its leadership and look forward to further collaboration with the government as it works to accelerate access to new medicines for devastating diseases."

- Arima Ventin Head, Market Access and Government Affairs, AbbVie

Health and Wellness

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TORONTO — The Ontario government is protecting families and vulnerable people from respiratory illnesses by preparing to launch its fall immunization programs. To help prevent serious illness, everyone is encouraged to get their flu and COVID-19 vaccines as soon as they become available as well as RSV immunization for those eligible.

“As we head into respiratory illness season, our government is using every tool in our toolbox to protect our communities, families and our most vulnerable,” said Sylvia Jones, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health. “Working with our health-care partners, we are making sure flu, COVID-19 and RSV immunizations are available close to home, where and when they are needed.”

Immunizations for high-risk and priority groups will begin in phases:

The initial supply of flu and COVID-19 vaccines in September and October will be available for high-risk and priority groups who live, work or study in Ontario, including:

Starting the week of September 22, Ontario residents aged 60 to 74 who meet certain high-risk criteria or live in specific higher-risk settings, as well as those aged 75 and older, are eligible to receive RSV vaccines, Abrysvo^® or Arexvy, as part of the province’s recent expansion to the adult RSV prevention program.

Starting October 1, eligible newborns and infants up to eight months of age in their first RSV season and high-risk children up to 24 months of age in their second RSV season can receive the Beyfortus^® immunization. Pregnant women also have the option to receive the RSV vaccine Abrysvo^® which can help protect infants at birth.

Starting October 27, free flu and COVID-19 shots will be available to the general public at participating pharmacies, some public health units and participating doctor and nurse practitioner offices.

“As we head into the fall, it’s important that we take simple, effective steps to stay healthy,” said Dr. Kieran Moore, Chief Medical Officer of Health. “Staying up-to-date on seasonal vaccines is significant to protect yourself, your family and loved ones and is a cornerstone of our preparedness this respiratory season.”

Vaccines in Ontario’s routine immunization schedule are provided free of charge if you meet the eligibility criteria. If you are unsure about which immunizations you or your family have received or are eligible for, talk to a health-care provider or your local public health unit.

Through Your Health: A Plan for Connected and Convenient Care, the Ontario government is providing people with the tools they need early to connect to the care they need to keep themselves and their loved ones safe and healthy.

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"The vaccination programs offered through our government are helping seniors to stay active, healthy and socially connected in our communities. I encourage all seniors to protect themselves by utilizing the available programs: stay safe and stay vaccinated!"

- Raymond ChoMinister of Seniors and Accessibility

"Our fall immunization programs are critical to our government’s ongoing efforts to ensure Ontarians living in long-term care get the quality of care they deserve. Along with effective infection and prevention control practices in long-term care homes, these immunization programs will help protect Ontario by prioritizing the health and safety of residents, staff and caregivers."

- Natalia Kusendova-BashtaMinister of Long-Term Care

"The Ontario Pharmacists Association is pleased to see the province’s continued commitment to supporting local communities through pharmacy. Pharmacy professionals across Ontario are proud to support another respiratory illness season—delivering flu and COVID-19 vaccines to ensure all Ontarians have timely access to care that keeps them healthy and safe."

- Justin BatesCEO, Ontario Pharmacists Association

"As respiratory viruses circulate this fall, vaccination is our strongest defense. We encourage all Ontarians, especially seniors and others at higher risk of complications from infection, to get their seasonal vaccines as soon as they’re available. If you’re unsure about timing or eligibility, your family physician can help you make a plan and find convenient options close to home. Getting protected now lowers the risk of severe illness and helps keep people healthier in their communities and out of hospitals."

- Dr. Jobin VarughesePresident, Ontario College of Family Physicians

"At GSK, we believe that expanding access to RSV immunization is essential to protecting seniors and supporting our health-care system, especially during the winter respiratory season. That’s why we’re proud to once again partner with Ontario to offer Arexvy—our innovative adjuvanted RSV vaccine—to adults aged 75 and over. This partnership reflects GSK’s deep commitment to improving public health and ensuring timely access to innovative medicines and vaccines to patients across Ontario and Canada."

- Sridhar VenkateshPresident and General Manager, GSK Canada

"CSL Seqirus commends the efforts of the Ontario government in promoting vaccination and prioritizing the health and well-being of Ontarians. Influenza remains among the 10 leading causes of death in Canada. This respiratory illness season, we are again proud to provide the Ontario government with Flucelvax®, a cell-based influenza vaccine for the general population, as well as Fluad® for Ontarians aged 65 and older, to help protect themselves from flu, while reducing the burden on the health-care system. We are committed to continuing to work closely with the government as well as our partners to ensure that vaccines are available and accessible to Ontarians."

- Gillian StaffordCSL Seqirus Country Head Commercial Operations, Canada

"As we enter respiratory illness season, it’s more important than ever to take proactive steps to protect our health. By expanding access to flu, COVID-19, and RSV immunizations, Ontario is helping more people stay healthy and active. At Pfizer Canada, we’re committed to supporting healthier communities, because when people thrive, so does our society."

- An Van GervenPresident, Pfizer Canada

"Sanofi applauds the Ontario Government for its leadership in immunization programs and commitment to best protecting Ontarians of all ages from respiratory illness this fall and winter. We are proud of Sanofi’s continued partnership supporting these important programs for Ontarians and that once again Beyfortus® will be offering RSV protection to all eligible newborns and infants; that Fluzone® will continue to provide flu protection to those six months of age and older; and that Fluzone® High-Dose will continue to offer flu protection specifically formulated for adults 65 years of age and older."

- Delphine LansacGeneral Manager, Vaccines, Sanofi Canada

"We are proud that Ontario’s fall vaccination campaign includes Moderna’s first made-in-Canada COVID-19 vaccines, fill-and-finished here in Ontario in pre-filled syringes. This milestone reflects not only Canada’s growing biomanufacturing capacity, but also our shared commitment to ensuring Ontarians have timely access to next-generation mRNA vaccines to help protect communities this fall."

- Stefan RaosGeneral Manager, Moderna Canada

TORONTO – To protect Ontario’s health-care system by providing more connected and convenient care to people around the province, the government is consulting to expand the scopes of practice for a wide range of regulated health professionals, including optometrists, psychologists and physiotherapists. This expansion would improve access to timely care, reduce pressure on the health-care system and allow more providers to work to the full extent of their training and expertise.

“Across our province, qualified health-care professionals are ready to contribute more to their communities, ensuring doctors’ offices and emergency departments are available for those who truly need them,” said Sylvia Jones, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health. “By working to expand scopes of practice for additional professions, we are building on our progress to make it faster and easier for families to access the care they need, when and where they need it.”

The government is currently consulting with partners on proposed changes that could:

In addition, the government provided direction to the Ontario College of Pharmacists to develop regulatory changes that would further expand pharmacists’ scope of practice, enabling pharmacists to assess and prescribe for an additional 14 ailments:

If approved, pharmacists would also be able to administer additional publicly funded vaccines (including RSV, Pertussis, Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pneumococcal, and Shingles), and administer Sublocade® (buprenorphine) for opioid use disorder. Additionally, the Ontario College of Pharmacists will be consulted on the administration of point-of-care tests by pharmacists to support implementation of common ailment prescribing, like strep throat testing. These changes would help alleviate pressures on primary care providers, walk-in clinics and hospital emergency departments, giving them more time to help people with more complex needs.

As part of Your Health: A Plan for Connected and Convenient Care, the government is protecting the health-care system, including making it easier for highly skilled, regulated health-care professionals to work to the full extent of their training and expertise to provide people with more connected and convenient care.

Quick Facts

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"The Ontario Pharmacists Association is excited to see the Ontario government’s continued efforts to expand pharmacy professionals’ scope of practice. Building on the success of the minor ailments program—which has already connected more than one million Ontarians to timely care—the addition of services like strep throat testing will make care even more convenient. Equally important, expanding access to publicly funded vaccines in community pharmacies will reduce barriers and increase vaccination uptake by allowing Ontarians to get the care they need closer to home. Together, these advancements mark a significant step forward in improving access to care and ensuring Ontarians can connect with the care they need, when and where they need it."

- Justin BatesChief Executive Officer, Ontario Pharmacists Association

"Today’s announcement is an important step toward fully integrating pharmacy into Ontario’s health system as a trusted destination for public health and primary care. Expanding pharmacists’ ability to prescribe for more minor ailments, order lab and point-of-care tests, and administer additional vaccines will give Ontarians faster, more convenient access to care. As the most accessible health care destination in every community, pharmacies are key to delivering care that strengthens the health system for everyone."

- Sandra Hanna, RPh., LLM, ICD.DChief Executive Officer, Neighbourhood Pharmacies

"The College supports the government’s ongoing focus on improving access to health care for Ontarians. We are pleased to work with the Ministry of Health on drafting regulations that expand the ability of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, as trusted healthcare professionals, to deliver safe, ethical and quality care that helps people get care closer to home."

- Doug BrownChair, Ontario College of Pharmacists Board of Directors

"The decision to grant prescribing privileges to psychologists is a milestone in Ontario’s ongoing commitment to improving mental health care. By integrating therapy and medication management within the scope of psychological practice, this advancement will expand access, reduce delays, and foster deeper collaboration with family physicians and nurse practitioners. Equally important, it ensures that patients receive comprehensive care, including safe medication adjustments and de-prescribing when clinically appropriate."

- Richard MorrisonChief Executive Officer, Ontario Psychological Association

"Expanding the scope of practice of psychologists with specialized training to include the prescription of specific medications could improve access to much-needed mental health and addictions care for Ontarians. The College welcomes the opportunity and is prepared to support the development of the regulatory infrastructure necessary for safe practice."

- Tony DeBonoRegistrar and Executive Director, College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario

"Today’s announcement marks a significant step forward in modernizing oral health care in Ontario by increasing access to Denturism care, reducing costs to patients, and promoting professional collaboration. We commend the Ontario government for adapting to the evolving needs of patients and maximizing the capabilities of highly trained oral health-care professionals."

- Roderick Tom-YingRegistrar and Chief Executive Officer, College of Denturists of Ontario

"As denturists, we welcome the government’s commitment to expanding our scope of practice so patients can access care more quickly and efficiently. By allowing regulated health professionals like denturists to perform diagnostic imaging, Ontarians will benefit from faster treatment, reduced wait times, and more comprehensive oral health care close to home. We greatly appreciate the government’s leadership in advancing this important initiative, which puts patients first and strengthens the entire health-care network. This is more than a policy shift: it is a forward-thinking investment in a stronger, more responsive health-care system."

- Anas Al Halabi DDPresident, Denturists Association of Ontario

"The College of Dental Hygienists of Ontario heartily supports this initiative that will see Ontario’s Registered Dental Hygienists practising more fully within their scope of practice and expertise. This addition increases access for the people of Ontario to a more comprehensive oral health care and supports an increase in the efficiency of the delivery of that essential care."

- Dr. Glenn PettiferRegistrar and Chief Executive Officer, College of Dental Hygienists of Ontario

"On behalf of the Ontario Physiotherapy Association, we acknowledge and appreciate the leadership of Minister Jones in bringing forward the necessary regulation changes to enable physiotherapists to practice at their full scope. Physiotherapists have an important role in supporting patients in timely access to care and in the health and wellness for all people living in Ontario—we are delighted to see this progress."

- Sarah Hutchison and Courtney BeanChief Executive Officer and President, Ontario Physiotherapy Association

"The College of Physiotherapists of Ontario fully supports giving physiotherapists the authority to order diagnostic imaging procedures. These changes will improve access to care, reduce the burden on the health-care system and allow physiotherapists to work to the full extent of their knowledge, skills and training. We look forward to ongoing collaboration with the Ministry during this process."

- Craig RoxboroughRegistrar and Chief Executive Officer, College of Physiotherapists of Ontario

"The College of Chiropodists of Ontario applauds this government’s continuing initiatives to improve access to quality care in the province. As the regulator of footcare professionals in Ontario, the College recognizes the critical importance of access to highly trained chiropodists and podiatrists in ensuring the health and wellness of Ontarians. "

- Nicole ZwiersRegistrar and Chief Executive Officer, College of Chiropodists of Ontario

"The Ontario Society of Chiropodists welcomes the Ministry of Health’s initiative to provide Ontario patients with faster, more responsive access to care by further empowering regulated health professionals. As primary care providers, Ontario’s Chiropodists are committed to working with the Ministry of Health and interdisciplinary partners to support better primary care delivery, reduce wait times and help achieve better outcomes for patients."

- Sasha Kozera-FayeInterim President, Ontario Society of Chiropodists

"The College of Optometrists of Ontario is excited to work with the government in the implementation of the proposed changes to Optometry's scope of practice. We are confident that this will benefit the people of Ontario with new accessibilities to eye care in the province. "

- Dr. Mark Eltis OD, FAAO, Dipl. ABO President, College of Optometrists of Ontario

"College of Chiropractors of Ontario's (CCO) statutory mandate is to protect the public through the registration of chiropractors and the development of standards of practice to which the profession must conform. CCO has draft standards of practice ready for approval, pending the appropriate regulatory changes. These tools will provide chiropractors with the tools they need to practice safely and effectively within the chiropractic scope of practice, for the benefit of Ontarians. We look forward to working with the Ministry and other system partners on this important consultation."

- Dr. Kyle GricePresident, College of Chiropractors of Ontario

"We welcome the Ontario government’s move towards expanding access to advanced diagnostic imaging such as MRIs and CT scans as part of the plan for more connected, convenient care. Chiropractors are regulated, highly trained and educated health-care professionals, working in communities across the province, helping people to find relief from spine, muscle and joint pain so they can regain mobility, and return to the lives they love. Authority to order advanced imaging would enable chiropractors to connect patients with the tests they need more quickly providing a faster path to diagnosis, treatment and recovery."

- Caroline BreretonChief Executive Officer, Ontario Chiropractic Association

"The College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists of Ontario welcomes the Ministry of Health’s commitment to innovation, reducing pressures on physicians and expanding the scope of practice for regulated health professionals, including speech-language pathologists. These practitioners are highly trained and capable, and these changes will allow them to more fully apply their expertise and training. We are encouraged by this announcement, which recognizes their vital role in improving timely access to high-quality care for Ontarians."

- Margaret DrentRegistrar and Chief Executive Officer, College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists of Ontario

"Speech-Language & Audiology Canada welcomes the Ontario government’s decision to expand the authority of regulated health professionals, including speech-language pathologists, to order and perform specific diagnostic imaging procedures within their scope of practice. This important step will help improve access to timely care and enhance collaboration across the health-care system. We look forward to continued progress on scope expansion for regulated health professionals, including those we represent, to better serve Ontarians and ensure patients receive convenient and connected care."

- Luciana Nechita Chief Executive Officer, Speech-Language & Audiology Canada