Connecting Patients to Life-Saving Cancer Drugs Faster

November 7, 2025

Our government is taking action to connect patients to life-saving cancer treatments almost a full year sooner 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.

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 historic initiative will expedite access to seven to ten high-priority cancer drugs ever year that are approved by Health Canada, saving lives and protecting Ontario’s health-care system.

The FAST program puts patients first by initiating drug program funding while lengthy pricing negotiations and approvals prior to public funding proceed, ensuring Ontario patients can receive timely access to the life-changing treatments they need.

This three-year pilot program will be evaluated to identify opportunities to improve patient experience, assess its scope and ensure long-term sustainability.

Learn More: https://news.ontario.ca/en/release/1006579/ontario-connecting-patients-to-life-saving-cancer-drugs-faster