Letter to Editor regarding the article "Shortage of drugs decried; Top doc says politicians lacked leadership on issue" (Montreal Gazette - March 30, 2012)

2012-51
April 3, 2012
For immediate release

OTTAWA - I am writing in response to your March 30, 2012 article, "Shortage of Drugs Decried."

In the article, Canadian Medical Association (CMA) President D. John Haggie underlines the need for federal leadership on the drug shortage issues. I agree with him that federal leadership is essential. That is why doing our part to meet the needs of patients has been at the heart of everything Health Canada has done.

For example, for some time now I have been encouraging drug makers to be more transparent on actual and potential drug shortages so that health professionals have the time and information they need to shift treatments if necessary. As a result there are web sites now up and running that report such information.

Health Canada is also expediting our approval of sources of replacement supplies of Sandoz drugs that are in shortage. To date the Department has approved 11 submissions for replacement supplies as well as 59 requests for emergency access to needed drugs. While we are expediting our reviews, we will also ensure that safety is not compromised. The last thing anyone wants is for patients to be harmed by unsafe drugs authorized in a rush to fill supply gaps.

Canadians can be assured that Health Canada will continue to play its part by approving alternative sources of supply during the Sandoz shortage and working with our partners, including Dr. Haggie and the CMA, to find longer term solutions that help protect patients against possible future shortages.

Sincerely,

Leona Aglukkaq
Minister of Health

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