High-Cost Drug Policies in Canadian Children’s Hospitals: An Exploratory Study

Abstract

OBJECTIVE Over the past decade a number of effective but costly drugs have entered the therapeutic arena. Ethical and logistical challenges associated with including children in research and policy have produced variability in public policy on funding pediatric drugs, with inconsistent coverage across Canada. The purpose of this study was to explore the processes for funding high-cost pediatric drugs in Canadian children’s hospitals. METHODS We conducted a cross-sectional, text-based survey of all 19 chairs of Canadian departments of pediatrics about the funding and accessibility of high-cost drugs. Thematic qualitative analysis was performed to organize, sort, and code verbatim written responses and follow-up correspondence. RESULTS Responses were received from all 19 Canadian departments of pediatrics surveyed (100% response rate). Three major themes emerged about pediatric high-cost drug policies: inconsistency between funding processes, variability in funding sources, and frustration with the current system. In aggregate, a clear concern emerged that current funding options were heterogenous and inadequate to meet patient needs. CONCLUSIONS There was widespread consensus from respondents that current options for funding pediatric high-cost drugs were inadequate and that there was need for urgent action to address this problem. Policy changes are needed to sustain and improve access to high-cost drugs for Canadian children. We propose 3 solutions, including the creation of a national framework for funding high-cost pediatric drugs, increased incorporation of pediatric considerations in drug research and development, and a multidisciplinary drug summit on pediatric therapeutics.