Published Date: Friday, October 15, 2021 | View More

Prince Edward Island to cover Trikafta for cystic fibrosis patients

Prince Edward Island will provide coverage for Trikafta, a new medication that has been shown to improve quality of life for people with cystic fibrosis.

Eligible Islanders can access coverage for the medication through the PEI Pharmacare Formulary beginning November 1, 2021.

“There has been tremendous advocacy in the cystic fibrosis community in regard to funding Trikafta and our government is pleased to assist Islanders in accessing this lifesaving medication. We are continuously working to ensure that cost is not a barrier when it comes to Islanders getting the medications they need most, when they need them most.”

– Health and Wellness Minister Ernie Hudson.

Trikafta is approved by Health Canada for cystic fibrosis patients 12 years of age and older, with a specific cystic fibrosis genetic mutation. It has been shown to slow disease progression, improve lung function and increase the median age of survival.

More information regarding the listing and coverage criteria will be available in the coming days. Cystic fibrosis patients and their families are encouraged to speak with their physician about coverage, once Trikafta is listed on the formulary.

Hunter Guindon, who was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at the age of 14, has been a strong advocate for the province to fund Trikafta.

“Trikafta is going to have an incredibly profound impact on the lives of so many Islanders,” said Hunter. “Today, my life has changed. This is the miracle medicine I’ve been waiting for my entire life, and it’s finally here. We can finally take a deep breath.”

Ray and Sherri Carmichael, whose 10-year-old daughter Josie was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at the age of four, have also been strong advocates for additional support for cystic fibrosis patients.

“We are thrilled with the announcement today,” Ray and Sherri said. “This means so much to our family and all in PEI who love someone with cystic fibrosis. This provides so much hope for their future.”