Lung Disease Advocates Call for Pharmacare Change

The Canadian Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation is pressing Ottawa to include oxygen therapy in the national Pharmacare plan. Advocates argue this shift would ease financial burdens for patients while ensuring consistent access across provinces. Pulmonary fibrosis, a devastating lung disease, has no cure, but treatment options can slow its progression and improve quality of life.

Why Oxygen Access Matters

Pulmonary fibrosis scars the lungs, causing severe breathing difficulties and eventual respiratory failure. While medications can help, many patients rely on long-term oxygen therapy. Currently, oxygen is classified as a drug, yet it is funded as a device. This mismatch leaves patients covering out-of-pocket costs that can be overwhelming.

Sharon Lee, Executive Director of the Canadian Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, explained:
“Oxygen is classified as a drug, but funded as a device. People often pay the difference themselves. That needs to change.”

What Advocates Want Ottawa to Do

The foundation submitted a proposal to the Canadian Drug Agency, urging that oxygen be federally funded as a drug. This move would allow funding to flow through to provinces, ensuring equal support nationwide. Advocates stress that no Canadian with pulmonary fibrosis should struggle to breathe simply because they cannot afford treatment.

Current Coverage in Ontario

Ontario covers up to 75% of home oxygen therapy costs under its Assistive Devices Program. Seniors in long-term care and residents on social assistance, including ODSP, may qualify for full coverage. However, coverage varies by province, leaving many families to absorb high costs. Standardizing funding at the federal level, supporters say, would eliminate these gaps.

Community Action and Fundraising

Advocacy also extends beyond government halls. More than 160 people gathered in Ottawa for the Walk for PF event, where patients, families, and supporters shared their stories. The Canadian Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation reports that more than $162,000 has been raised to date, with more events planned nationwide. These walks aim to raise both awareness and critical funds for ongoing support and research.

The foundation hopes its push will convince Ottawa to include oxygen therapy in the Pharmacare program, ensuring fair access for all Canadians. For patients facing the daily struggle of pulmonary fibrosis, such a change could mean not just relief, but also dignity.

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