The Ontario Ministry of Health has announced that the Ontario Hepatitis C Assistance Plan (OHCAP) will be winding down after nearly 30 years of providing equitable access to hepatitis C compensation. According to the Ministry, “the program has achieved its goal with strong uptake for nearly 30 years” and is now being responsibly closed as applications have steadily declined.

Individuals who may be eligible for compensation are strongly encouraged to review the timelines and application requirements as soon as possible. The Ministry notes that all applications must be submitted by June 30, 2026, and that processing “may take over 12 months, depending on the availability of hospital and transfusion records.” Continue reading →

The Canadian Hemophilia Society has announced an important evolution: a new national name—Bleeding Disorders Canada. This change reflects the growth and diversity of the bleeding disorders community and aims to ensure that everyone living with inherited bleeding disorders sees themselves represented. The mission and vision remain unchanged, with continued focus on advocacy, safety, comprehensive care, and research. Continue reading →

The World Health Organization (WHO) Executive Board has endorsed a new resolution aimed at closing major gaps in care for people with hemophilia and other bleeding disorders. The resolution highlights the global reality that bleeding disorders remain widely underdiagnosed and undertreated, with more than 70% of affected individuals lacking adequate access to therapy. It also emphasizes that women and girls face additional barriers due to stigma, limited awareness, and inconsistent clinical recognition. Continue reading →

The Canadian Hemophilia Society (CHS) has formally asked the Provincial/Territorial Blood Liaison Committee to accept Canadian Blood Services’ recommendation to introduce Altuviiio (efanesoctocog alfa) for people with hemophilia A. Health Canada approved the therapy earlier this year, and national assessments have supported its clinical value. Phase 3 studies show that once‑weekly Altuviiio offers superior bleed protection, near‑normal factor VIII levels, and improvements in pain, joint health, and overall physical well‑being. Continue reading →

CSL Behring has signed a letter of intent with the pan‑Canadian Pharmaceutical Alliance to advance public reimbursement discussions for Hemgenix, the first gene therapy approved for hemophilia B. The agreement is an early step toward making the therapy more accessible across Canada’s public drug plans. Continue reading →

Canadian Blood Services is pushing to strengthen Canada’s self‑reliance in plasma‑derived medicines. Demand for immunoglobulins continues to rise, yet most of Canada’s supply still comes from the United States. CBS outlines a national strategy to expand plasma collection, build Canadian manufacturing capacity, and reduce reliance on foreign supply chains. The goal is long‑term stability and improved self‑sufficiency for patients who depend on these lifesaving therapies. Continue reading →