The provincial government announced Monday that more cystic fibrosis (CF) patients in Saskatchewan are now eligible for Trikafta, a medication that improves lung function.
The expanded coverage, which took effect on Nov. 15, now includes patients with one of 152 rare genetic mutations that respond to the drug. This change will cover most CF patients in the province.
The decision follows a Nov. 4 recommendation from the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health, which called on jurisdictions to expand Trikafta coverage to include these rare genetic mutations.
"We are pleased to expand coverage for this treatment for more Saskatchewan people with cystic fibrosis," said Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill. "We know that Trikafta improves the quality of life for patients, so expanding coverage to include these rare genetic mutations means more CF patients and their families will benefit for years to come."
Coverage for Trikafta was first introduced in 2021 for CF patients with the most common genetic mutation. In January 2024, coverage was extended to children aged two to five.
About 95 people in Saskatchewan currently receive Trikafta under the provincial plan, with another 25 expected to become eligible under the expanded criteria.
According to the Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Registry, more than 4,400 people in Canada have CF, including more than 130 in Saskatchewan.