Ontario’s World-Class Hospitals: A Moment for Pride and Reflection
For the second consecutive year, Toronto’s University Health Network (UHN) has been named the third-best hospital in the world by Newsweek. Not only that, UHN was the highest ranked publicly funded hospital globally. This is no small feat. The world is a big place, with thousands of hospitals delivering cutting-edge care. To see a Canadian institution standing shoulder to shoulder with the best is a moment of genuine pride, not just for Ontario but for the entire country. Under the exceptional leadership of CEO Dr. Kevin Smith and an incredible team, UHN continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in healthcare. From robotic surgery breakthroughs to remote deep brain stimulation for Parkinson’s patients, to the world’s first lung transplant using a drone-delivered organ, the hospital exemplifies cutting-edge research, clinical excellence, and innovative thinking. But while this recognition is a testament to UHN’s world-class capabilities, it is also emblematic of something broader: Ontario’s entire hospital system is a model of efficiency, innovation, and leadership we should all be proud of. While UHN’s achievements are extraordinary, they do not stand alone. Ontario’s hospitals—large and small, urban and rural, consistently rank among the most efficient and innovative in the world. As Anthony Dale, CEO of the Ontario Hospital Association (OHA), would frequently point out, Ontario hospitals have been global leaders in efficiency, operating with one of the lowest per-capita hospital funding levels in the developed world while still delivering outstanding patient outcomes. This recognition is not a fluke. It is the result of dedicated healthcare professionals, strong leadership, and an ingrained culture of innovation and adaptability. Here are just a few examples of Ontario hospitals leading the way: • North York General Hospital – A leader in patient safety and digital transformation, NYGH’s eCare project implemented barcode scanning for medication administration, reducing errors and streamlining care. • Scarborough Health Network (SHN) – One of the most culturally diverse hospital networks in Canada, SHN has built tailored healthcare solutions for its multicultural communities, making it a national leader in health equity and inclusion. • Trillium Health Partners (THP) – Partnered with Signal 1 to integrate AI technology into patient care, improving efficiency and outcomes while setting the standard for AI-driven healthcare transformation. • Hamilton Health Sciences (HHS) – A recognized leader in leadership development, HHS runs programs that train the next generation of hospital administrators and healthcare executives, ensuring long-term institutional excellence. • Belleville General Hospital (QHC) – Under Stacey Daub’s leadership, QHC has focused on community engagement and healthcare innovation, ensuring that rural and regional care remains at the forefront of healthcare delivery. These hospitals, alongside many others across the province, demonstrate the strength of Ontario’s healthcare system as a whole. While the University Health Network (UHN) exemplifies the exceptional quality of Ontario’s healthcare institutions, it’s important to recognize that Canada’s commitment to medical excellence extends across the nation. In Alberta, groundbreaking advancements such as the development of MRI-compatible robotic neurosurgery systems have revolutionized surgical precision. Additionally, the Edmonton Protocol for islet transplantation has significantly improved the quality of life for individuals with hard-to-control diabetes. In Manitoba, St. Boniface Hospital in Winnipeg is home to the Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, conducting leading-edge research at the cellular and molecular levels. Meanwhile, Vancouver General Hospital in British Columbia houses the world’s largest facility dedicated to spinal cord injury research and patient care. These institutions, alongside Ontario’s esteemed hospitals, collectively showcase Canada’s robust healthcare system, reflecting a nationwide dedication to medical innovation and patient care that spans coast to coast to coast. In reflecting on UHN’s latest recognition, Delphic Research’s Strategic Advisor, George Smitherman, former Ontario Minister of Health, shared this: “Working with Ontario’s hospitals, their leaders, and frontline staff was an absolute privilege. Every day, I saw firsthand their dedication, and I couldn’t have been prouder of the care they provide.” It is easy to focus on the challenges in our healthcare system—because there are many. Wait times, staffing shortages, and funding pressures remain serious concerns. And we must always remain vigilant in pushing for improvements. But today is also a moment to recognize that, despite these pressures, Ontario’s hospitals continue to set the global standard for excellence. The fact that a publicly funded healthcare system can produce institutions ranked among the top three in the world—and that this is not an isolated success story but part of a broader trend of excellence—deserves recognition, respect, and pride. Ontario’s hospitals are not just surviving—they are leading the world. And that is something worth celebrating.
The Future of Campaigns and Advocacy: The Increasing Importance of Tech Literacy
Next week, I’ll be speaking at the Next Campaign Tech Showcase 2025 at the Queen’s Manor Event Centre near Toronto. This inaugural event will bring together decision-makers, strategists, and technologists to explore how emerging tools are transforming modern political campaigns in Canada. While Delphic Research isn’t a campaign tech firm in the traditional sense, our work in curated intelligence overlaps significantly with the themes of this conference. We’ve supported some local campaigns in the past and have seen firsthand how technology is reshaping advocacy and public affairs. But more broadly, I believe that every serious professional—whether in government relations, public affairs, or advocacy—needs to develop an awareness of the technology available in their field. One of the challenges in government affairs and advocacy is that most professionals don’t want to manage a complex tech stack—they want insights, intelligence, and actionable information without having to sift through endless dashboards or data streams. That’s why we’ve built Delphic Research as a curated intelligence platform—delivering what’s essential, without requiring clients to operate the back end of the system themselves. However, understanding the available technology is different from having to use it directly. Even if you don’t plan to run your own AI-driven campaign, automate outreach, or leverage geotargeted digital advertising, knowing what’s possible allows you to make better decisions and plan more effective, data and information-driven campaigns. It’s about being informed enough to ask the right questions and ensure you’re not missing key opportunities. The Next Campaign Tech Showcase will feature a lineup of speakers and sessions covering the latest trends in digital campaigning, data-driven advocacy, and AI in political strategy. Some of the key topics include expanding your reach to multicultural audiences, the role of AI in voter outreach and persuasion, and the various ways in which data can power campaigns (electoral and advocacy) more successfully. What’s clear from these topics is that the future of campaigns and advocacy is deeply intertwined with technology. Whether you’re working in public policy, advocacy, or government relations, staying informed about the tools available isn’t just beneficial—it’s essential to remaining competitive. At Delphic Research, we see this as part of a broader shift: the most effective professionals in any industry are those who blend expertise with an evolving understanding of technology. The future belongs to those who don’t just react to change but anticipate and harness it. I’m looking forward to sharing my insights at Next Campaign Tech Showcase 2025 and learning from other experts in the field. If you’re attending, let’s connect. For more information about the event, visit https://nextcampaign.ca.
Government Matters. Are You Paying Attention?
In 2023, 40% of CFOs surveyed ranked government risk—regulatory changes, policy shifts, and political decisions—as the number one threat to their organizations. After the past couple of weeks, I’d be surprised if that ranking hasn’t risen even higher. For some, this has always been obvious. If you work in healthcare, finance, energy, critical minerals, or any heavily regulated sector, you already know that government isn’t just a backdrop—it can change your industry overnight. But for others, perhaps, the past few weeks have been a wake-up call. Markets move on government decisions. Policy shifts disrupt supply chains. And for businesses caught off guard, the consequences are immediate. Why Expanding U.S. Monitoring Matters Now At Delphic Research, we’ve been deeply engaged in tracking Canadian policy, political, regulatory, and stakeholder intelligence for years. Given the integrated nature of the North American economy, we’ve always kept an eye on the U.S. as well. But what our analysis has made increasingly clear is that this isn’t just about economic integration anymore—it’s about the convergence of policy, regulation, and politics themselves. Government actions in Washington don’t just create ripple effects across industries—they directly shape policy discussions and regulatory decisions here in Canada. The alignment we are seeing across sectors, from energy and environment to life sciences and trade, means that even those focused on Canadian affairs can’t afford to ignore the shifting landscape south of the border. Understanding Canada now requires a sharper, more structured approach to U.S. intelligence. That’s why we’ve significantly expanded our U.S. monitoring capabilities. Over the past week, we’ve enhanced our strategy, holding intensive meetings to map out how best to strengthen our coverage. We’re closely monitoring policy moves from government, major agencies, industry groups, and influential stakeholders, analyzing their positions and the cascading effects they create. At the state level, we’re keeping watch on regulatory actions that often serve as testing grounds for broader national shifts. This isn’t passive information gathering—it’s a structured, proactive approach to intelligence. Instead of waiting for information to surface, we’re identifying the sources that matter before they impact markets, industries, and policy environments. Government isn’t a distant force operating outside the market—it is one of the most significant drivers of business risk and opportunity. McKinsey has found that in some industries, government decisions impact up to 30% of the bottom line. If you aren’t monitoring these shifts in real time, you’re reacting too late. With this expanded U.S. coverage, our subscribers will see an immediate impact—sharper insights, faster intelligence, and a more complete picture of the political and regulatory landscape across North America. The reality is clear: the line between Canadian and U.S. policy is blurring. For anyone working in government affairs, regulatory strategy, or corporate risk, understanding one without the other is no longer an option. We’re adapting to this new reality. The question is—are you?
Hitting Pause: What Trudeau’s Prorogation Means for Canada’s Parliament
Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his resignation as leader of the Liberal Party. The individual who succeeds him in the upcoming leadership race will also assume the role of Prime Minister of Canada and is expected to lead the party into the next federal election, whenever that might occur. While not entirely unexpected—speculation about Trudeau’s resignation has been mounting for some time—today’s announcement comes amidst a growing sense that his leadership had become untenable. In recent weeks, an increasing number of Liberal MPs publicly called for Trudeau to step down, a sign that internal party pressure had reached a breaking point. To facilitate the leadership election and address what he described as “parliamentary paralysis,” Trudeau also requested the Governor General to prorogue Parliament. The Governor General agreed to this request, bringing the current session of Parliament to an official end. This decision, while politically charged, is entirely legitimate and constitutional. Prorogation is a standard prerogative of the Prime Minister in Westminster parliamentary systems, though it has been used controversially in the past to navigate political challenges. This blog focuses on prorogation as a parliamentary mechanism: what it is, how it works, and why it matters. Prorogation is a parliamentary convention that formally ends a session of Parliament. It is a procedural reset, halting all parliamentary business—including debates, committee work, and the consideration of legislation—until a new session begins with a Throne Speech outlining the government’s agenda. In Canada, the Governor General, as the King’s representative as head of state, grants prorogation on the advice of the Prime Minister. When prorogation occurs, all unfinished legislative business dies on the order paper. Bills that were not passed into law must be reintroduced in the next session. Additionally, parliamentary committees are dissolved and must be reconstituted when Parliament reconvenes. Parliament resumes with a Throne Speech, which sets out the government’s legislative priorities for the new session. Prorogation differs significantly from other parliamentary events. Adjournment pauses Parliament temporarily, often for holidays or scheduled breaks. During an adjournment, the session remains active, and legislative work resumes when sittings reconvene. Dissolution, by contrast, terminates a Parliament entirely and triggers a general election. Unlike prorogation, which ends a session within the same Parliament, dissolution ends the parliamentary term. Similarly, a sitting refers to a single meeting of Parliament, while a session spans the time between a Throne Speech and prorogation or dissolution. A Parliament, meanwhile, lasts from one election to the next and typically includes multiple sessions. When Parliament is prorogued, both the House of Commons and the Senate are affected. Most government bills and committee work are terminated, though certain elements of parliamentary business survive. For instance, Private Members’ Business, including bills and motions, continues from session to session. This allows private members to carry forward their legislative work, such as bills referred to committees or passed by the House and sent to the Senate. Additionally, the Board of Internal Economy, a joint committee of the House of Commons and the Senate responsible for overseeing internal administrative matters, continues its operations during prorogation to ensure the smooth functioning of Parliament. These exceptions underscore that while prorogation halts most legislative activities, some mechanisms exist to maintain continuity. Prorogation also raises questions about the government’s ability to fund itself in the absence of parliamentary appropriations. Canada’s Constitution grants Parliament the exclusive power to approve expenditures through supply bills (“the Power of the Purse”) which are typically passed during active sessions of Parliament. However, during prorogation, the government can only rely on funds previously approved for the fiscal year. These appropriations allow the government to continue functioning and delivering services without interruption. If additional funds are required during this period, the government must wait until Parliament reconvenes to seek approval for supplementary appropriations. While prorogation is a legitimate constitutional mechanism, it has occasionally been used as a tool to navigate political challenges or avoid scrutiny. Stephen Harper, for example, prorogued Parliament twice during his tenure. In 2008, Harper prorogued Parliament to avoid a confidence vote that could have ended his government and allowed a coalition of opposition parties to take power. Critics viewed this as a tactic to sidestep democratic accountability. In 2009, Harper prorogued Parliament again, delaying inquiries into the treatment of Afghan detainees by Canadian forces. Both instances sparked widespread debate about the appropriate use of prorogation. Similarly, in 2019, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson advised the Queen to prorogue Parliament for five weeks during the Brexit crisis, citing the need to prepare a new legislative agenda. The UK Supreme Court later ruled the prorogation unlawful, finding that it had the effect of preventing Parliament from fulfilling its constitutional functions. Today, Justin Trudeau’s prorogation, while facilitating the Liberal Party’s leadership race, also postpones parliamentary scrutiny, including delaying a likely vote of non-confidence, which the Conservatives had threatened to bring forward as soon as January (although it was more likely that, procedurally, that Trudeau’s day of reckoning would not have come before late March). For those unfamiliar with Westminster systems, prorogation may seem puzzling—especially when viewed through the lens of U.S. political structures. Unlike the U.S. Congress, which operates independently of the President, Canada’s Parliament is tightly integrated with the executive branch, allowing the Prime Minister to request prorogation. Prorogation in Canada is initiated by the Prime Minister and formally enacted by the Governor General. In the U.S., Congress controls its own schedule, and the President does not have comparable powers. Prorogation halts all parliamentary business. In the U.S., legislation remains active within a Congress (lasting two years) and does not expire at the end of a session. While there is no direct equivalent, mechanisms like government shutdowns or executive orders can achieve similar outcomes by stalling legislative activity or bypassing Congress. Justin Trudeau’s resignation as Liberal leader marks the end of an era, but it also highlights the significance of parliamentary conventions like prorogation. While his decision to prorogue Parliament has raised eyebrows, it remains a legitimate and constitutional tool, albeit one that has historically
Reflecting on 2024: A Year of Accomplishment at Delphic Research
As the calendar turns to 2025, it’s natural for individuals and organizations alike to reflect on the year gone by in preparation of the year to come. For us at Delphic Research, 2024 has been nothing short of phenomenal. Our team and our proprietary knowledge platform, Argus, have achieved significant milestones that underscore the impact we’re making in the world of government affairs and policy intelligence. In addition to the thousands of print, broadcast, and podcast sources we monitor via our media monitoring partnerships, we have expanded our compendium of government, agency, and stakeholder sources monitored daily to over 850 unique sources where information of relevance might emerge. At the end of this year, Delphic Research has now written an extraordinary 37,957 individual stories or story modules—each one representing a valuable piece of actionable intelligence. These stories were meticulously curated from a staggering 294,309 unique and subscriber-relevant information points that we pulled into our platform, allowing us to turn raw information into insights. What sets us apart is our ability to uncover and report stories that others often overlook. Many of these are too niche for traditional media or even trade publications, yet they are vital to our customers. This focus is where Delphic Research truly shines—delivering insights that matter. In 2024, we broke several important stories, often being the first—and in some cases, the only—source to report them. Here are just a few highlights: •The surprise resignation of Doug Clark as CEO of the Pan-Canadian Pharmaceutical Alliance (PCPA) after a short tenure, followed by Dominic Tan’s appointment as interim CEO and Clifford Lo’s official role as acting deputy CEO. As of now, both the CEO and deputy CEO positions remain unfilled permanently. •Unique coverage of the Ontario government’s “hard pivot” to the Life Sciences, including reporting remarks made (at multiple events through the year) by Ontario Premier Doug Ford and by Vic Fedeli, Ontario’s Minister of Economic Development and Trade and a champion of the sector within the Ontario government. •Comprehensive coverage of the National Pharmacare legislation, from its passage through the House to the Senate and its royal assent. We detailed the unexpected twists and turns between both the legislative initiative and the government’s implementation. In the end, where the government ended up was far removed from the vision laid out in the legislation. What was once seen as a pathway to a universal, comprehensive, national/federal program (with a focus on rare diseases) ended up as a very narrow program, neither universal nor comprehensive, and focused on diabetes medications and contraceptives. Moreover, what was once assumed to be a federal, go-it-alone, approach, the legislation that was passed has now been positioned as the foundation for bilateral agreements with each Canadian province. •The official transition of the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (CADTH) into Canada’s Drug Agency (CDA), marking a significant shift in the country’s pharmaceutical landscape positioning the CDA as a vital instrument for national pharmacare. 2024 was also a year of remarkable growth for Delphic Research. We tripled our subscriber base, maintaining our focus on the health and life sciences sector while laying the groundwork to expand into new areas. As we move into 2025, we’re excited to support other parts of the healthcare system and explore additional sectors where our insights can drive meaningful change. We also look forward to continuing as a contributor to the landscape our subscribers work in, helping to convene a more robust community within government affairs and, in particular, within Canada’s vibrant life sciences sector. We were not only proud to support the work of Life Sciences Ontario, Innovative Medicines Canada, and MedTech Canada in 2024, we also attended, presented, or organized 22 different events for the community. On top of that, we published two dozen “insight” articles on relevant topics during the year. As we reflect on the accomplishments of 2024, we’re reminded of our mission: to elevate government affairs through knowledge. With each passing year, we grow stronger, more innovative, and more impactful. We look forward to continuing this momentum into 2025, building on the successes of the past year to reach even greater heights. I also want to take a moment to thank our incredible team—the people who made these accomplishments possible. 2024 was not an easy year. Inventing an entirely new product category for the sector is no small task; it requires creativity, resilience, and determination. We’ve often had to make it up as we went along—this is what innovation demands—but our team rose to the challenge. While not everyone who contributed in 2024 will continue with us in 2025, I want to express my deepest gratitude to each and every team member for their efforts. Their work has laid the foundation for the successes we’ve achieved and the bright future ahead. As we enter 2025, I feel truly great about where we are. We have big plans, and I couldn’t be more excited about what’s in store for Delphic Research and for our customers in the year ahead.
The Importance of Full-Spectrum Monitoring: A Case in Point from the Ontario Pharmacy Consultation
The Importance of Full-Spectrum Monitoring: A Case in Point from the Ontario Pharmacy Consultation There probably isn’t a day that goes by when our monitoring doesn’t bring something important across my desk that is vitally important to one of our subscribers but isn’t being reported by the news. And it’s understandable. Not every piece of regulatory information, new consultation, or policy change will make headlines. But for those of us working in government affairs, it’s these smaller, seemingly unnoticed developments that can have the biggest impact on our work. This is a prime example. Right now, there are several consultations underway that should be of interest to those in the healthcare sector, but today I want to focus on the Ontario pharmacy consultation, sweeping in its scope. This ongoing consultation, which closes on October 20th, is looking at the potential expansion of the pharmacists’ scope of practice in Ontario. It’s an important moment for those of us in the life sciences, as it touches on areas like: • Expanding prescribing authority for pharmacists, particularly in managing chronic diseases.• Reviewing the MedsCheck program, which supports medication reviews for patients, with the possibility of expanding it to include those on fewer prescriptions.• Increasing the list of vaccines pharmacists are authorized to administer, which would have a positive impact on public health. Beyond What’s ListedWhile the government’s consultation covers several key areas, there’s also an opportunity to look beyond what’s specifically mentioned. Since 2019, pharmacists have been allowed to administer certain therapeutics by injection, but the list of approved drugs has not been updated since then. In that time, Health Canada has approved a number of new, important therapeutics, many of which remain out of reach for pharmacists to administer. For example, long-acting injectable therapies—including those for HIV, opioid use disorder, RSV, COVID-19, asthma, and immunological diseases—can provide new options for some patients. Yet, without modifications to the list of approved therapies pharmacists can administer, we may be missing out on opportunities to facilitate better access. Now, not all of these therapies may be appropriate for administration in a pharmacy setting, but proper consideration should be given to expanding the pharmacists’ role and improving access for patients across Ontario, especially those in underserved or hard-to-reach areas. Why Engagement Is CrucialFor stakeholders in healthcare and life sciences, engaging in this consultation is critical. These regulatory changes may not be front-page news (or “any page” news, for that matter), but they can significantly impact patient care and market access strategies. If you’re involved in pharmaceutical development, healthcare delivery, or patient advocacy, this consultation represents an opportunity to ensure that pharmacy practice evolves in a way that maximizes benefits for all. At Delphic Research, we’ve already prepared our submission which touches on several areas, and which offers both important context and considerations that should be kept in mind for government. If you’re interested in seeing our submission, feel free to reach out, and we’d be happy to share it with you. This consultation is a key moment for the evolution of pharmacy practice in Ontario, and I encourage everyone in this space to submit their feedback before the October 20th deadline. You can find more information and submit your feedback here.
Why Canada Hosting This Year’s MedTech Conference Matters
Why Canada Hosting This Year’s MedTech Conference Matters In just a couple of weeks, Toronto will play host to one of the most important medical technology conferences on Earth. The international MedTech Conference (October 15-17) will see thousands of participants from across North America and beyond come together to learn, grow, share, and celebrate the accomplishments of the sector. This year, the conference is being held on Canadian soil for the first time, a significant moment that reflects the increasing maturity and depth of Canada’s MedTech sector. Without a doubt, this is a testament to the hard work of so many within Canada’s vibrant life sciences and medical device sector and, in particular, the great leadership of Medtech Canada, its board, and Nicole DeKort in putting Canada’s MedTech sector on the global map. Medical technology is an incredibly diverse category, encompassing a wide range of innovations that differ in their application, use, and placement within healthcare systems. From diagnostic tools and surgical devices to advanced prosthetics and health monitoring systems, the landscape is rich with variety and opportunity. Because of this diversity, the issues facing the industry can be quite varied as well, depending on the technology in question. However, there are several regulatory and policy trends that affect the sector as a whole, are in constant motion, and require careful attention: The Circular Economy/Extended Producer Responsibility The push towards a circular economy is placing new obligations on manufacturers and first importers in terms of the full lifecycle of their products and packaging. This movement has been gaining momentum for years, particularly within other industries such as consumer packaged goods. However, we are now seeing its application to the MedTech sector, where manufacturers must prepare to take greater responsibility for sustainability and stewardship across the product lifecycle. This has meant new obligations and new costs being borne by the sector, driven primarily by provincial regulations and approaches which are not always aligned when it comes to product stewardship. And, while industry would benefit from greater coordination, alignment, and certainty among provincial governments, this remains an area of policy that requires one to keep track of what is happening in each jurisdiction, among stewardship organizations, and the activities of stakeholders within this developing area of responsibility. Right to Repair The right to repair movement continues to advance, with policy and legislative developments at both the federal and provincial levels in Canada, and with implications for the medical device space. While the “right to repair” movement is largely rooted in consumer electronics and other household goods, steps taken by policymakers have broadened the circle through measures that would impact on the highly regulated world of medical devices with potential implications for patients, health delivery organizations, and industry. This movement is creating new expectations for device manufacturers with respect to access to repair parts to extend the life of medical devices, as well as changes to copyright legislation that interfere with manufacturers’ abilities to use digital locks to protect the integrity and safety of their codebase. These expectations, however, are not without their risk to patients and to healthcare delivery organizations, something which our existing medical device regulatory regime is designed to protect. Consequently, it is vitally important that policymakers engage the industry and its representatives in meaningful consultations throughout every stage on every element of policy when it comes to these changes. For its part, the medical device sector must continually monitor this issue and adapt to what feels like a constantly evolving regulatory and policy landscape, even as it tries to influence future directions towards a more balanced path. Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUMSA/USMCA) Review/Renegotiation The pending review and possible renegotiation of the trade agreement among North America’s “Three Amigos” (Canada-US-Mexico) could have a major impact on the MedTech sector (and our economy more broadly), with implications for tariff policy, intellectual property protection, and the free movement of both parts and fully assembled products. Understanding the implications of potential changes in trade policies is crucial for companies as they navigate market access, pricing, and supply chain management. Understandably, the outcome of the US election will have a major impact on trade policy in the years to come. Facilitating Better Access to Medical Device Innovation Medical device innovation able to provide huge benefits to both patients and health systems but the pace of adoption in healthcare lags the pace of innovation itself. For all our sakes, this is an issue that needs to be addressed. Unlike pharmaceutical reimbursement pathways, medical devices and other health technologies often face more complex — or at least far less defined – avenues for market access. Without losing sight of what makes them different from medicines, it is important to acknowledge that barriers exist when it comes to the adoption of innovative technologies in healthcare settings. Policy makers should consider strategies that facilitate earlier adoption of new medical technology, including the option of providing direct funding support to accelerate the adoption of these new technologies by health delivery organizations. During MedTech 2024, Delphic Research will be looking to help raise the profile of this essential sector and ensure that its contributions to our health are recognized and supported. There has never been a more exciting time to be involved in MedTech, and I am confident that the discussions we have at this conference will help shape the future of healthcare in Canada and beyond. If you would like to learn more about this year’s MedTech Conference, please click here.
Canada’s Right to Repair: Navigating the Risks for Medical Devices
Canada’s Right to Repair: Navigating the Risks for Medical Devices Canada is advancing towards implementing a right to repair regime for electronics, aiming to empower consumers and foster a competitive repair market. While this movement offers significant benefits in many sectors, it presents serious risks when applied to medical devices. Balancing the need for timely and cost-effective repairs with the paramount importance of patient safety is crucial and requires a highly cautious approach. BillC-244 – A Focus on the Digital Locks and the Copyright Act. Federal efforts have initially targeted the Copyright Act, particularly regarding digital locks. These locks prevent unauthorized access to software embedded in electronic devices, which includes everything from smartphones to medical equipment. Proposed changes would allow individuals to circumvent these digital locks for the purpose of repair, without infringing on the intellectual property rights of manufacturers. However, this move could lead to significant safety risks, particularly with complex and sensitive medical devices. Concerns from the Medical Device Industry The application of right-to-repair principles to medical devices has faced strong opposition from the medical device industry, led by Medtech Canada. Their concerns are well-founded. A report from the US FDA linked third-party repairs to serious adverse events, including deaths. Unauthorized repairs by untrained individuals or unregulated entities can lead to device malfunctions, posing severe risks to patients’ health and safety. This opposition underscores the need for stringent regulations and safeguards. Applying right-to-repair to medical devices seems directly at odds with Canada’s commitment to patient safety, as demonstrated by initiatives like Vanessa’s Law. This law emphasizes stringent regulation to protect patients from harmful medical practices and products. Any move towards a right-to-repair regime must not compromise these crucial safety standards. Policymakers must ensure that the safety of patients remains the top priority, even as they seek to increase repair options. Provincial and Federal Developments The right to repair is not solely a federal issue. Last November, Quebec passed sweeping legislative changes targeting “planned obsolesce” of consumer electronics and in the automotive industry through a number of broad-based measures associated with a robust “right to repair” regime. The legislation amends the province’s consumer protection legislation to impose a number of obligations on manufacturers, such as a Good Working Order Warranty, the provision of spare parts, as well as making diagnostic tools/software more readily available to third-parties. And while not targeting medical devices, Quebec’s legislation serves as a stark reminder that the Copyright Act changes are but one tool in the available toolbox and the possibility that governments everywhere might well reach for some of these tools when it comes to medical devices. In June,the federal government also announced further consultations on right to repair,primarily focusing on consumer electronics. However, the inclusion of medical devices in future legislation remains a possibility, necessitating a highly cautious approach that prioritizes patient safety. Medical device manufacturers must closely monitor both federal and provincial policy developments, as changes at either level could have significant impacts. International Context and Lessons Canada’s efforts are part of a broader global movement. Several U.S. states and the European Union have enacted right-to-repair laws, incorporating product standards and availability of spare parts. These international examples provide valuable lessons for Canada, especially in navigating the complexities of medical device repairs. However, it is critical to recognize that the stakes are higher for medical devices due to their direct impact on human health. Conclusion Canada’s right-to-repair movement may well hold significant promise when it comes to reducing costs and increasing the lifespan of electronic devices. However, the unique challenges posed by medical device repairs necessitate a highly cautious approach. Ensuring that repairs are conducted safely, without undermining the stringent regulations designed to protect patients, is paramount. Policy makers must craft clear guidelines and consider international precedents to create a balanced and effective right-to-repair regime that serves both the healthcare industry and the public. Medical device manufacturers need to remain vigilant and engaged with policy developments, not just at the federal level but also at the provincial level.The implications of right-to-repair legislation can vary widely across jurisdictions, and staying informed is essential to safeguarding both business interests and patient safety. As Canada moves forward, engaging with all stakeholders will be critical to developing policies that protect consumer rights without compromising the safety and efficacy of medical devices.
Casey House’s Cheeky “Stigmavir” Campaign is a Reminder That Stigma Remains a Barrier to Healthcare Access
Thirty years after Princess Diana’s historic visit, Casey House once again is trying to smash HIV stigma through a new creative campaign that demonstrates humour, empathy, and a bit of panache. On October 25, 1991, Princess Diana made a historic visit to Casey House, Toronto’s pioneering HIV/AIDS hospice (now a hospital). At the time, people living with AIDS were experiencing almost unimaginable stigma and discrimination, including from the very caregivers charged with their care. And yet here was the most famous woman in the world taking the time to visit some of the most-shunned people around. During that first decade of the AIDS epidemic, a certain amount of hysteria was on display as people grappled with this new,mysterious, plague. Even healthcare workers weren’t immune from getting swept-up in the hysteria, with many people with HIV reporting acts of horrific discrimination and neglect by some of their caregivers. This, in spite of the fact that their fear was completely out of step with the scientific evidence regarding transmission risk. So, in the context of those times, Princess Diana’s visit to Toronto’s Casey House — an institution itself established in reaction to discrimination experienced in healthcare settings – was truly remarkable. What was more remarkable was the degree of comfort and safety she displayed in her interactions with all 13 residents there. Diana knew exactly what she was doing and how those images of her sitting with, talking with, and touching the hands of residents would help people recognize that their fear was misplaced. “HIV does not make people dangerous to know, so you can shake their hands and give them a hug,” Diana said at a conference the same year as her visit. “Heaven knows they need it.” Her visit was a powerful statement against the stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS, demonstrating compassion and challenging prejudices. Her ground-breaking visit was recently immortalized in Nick Green’s powerful play, “Casey and Diana” But, as Casey House’s new creative campaign, developed by Bensimon Byrne, reminds us HIV stigma remains a thing, particularly with healthcare workers, As the campaign states,1 in 5 people living with HIV are denied health care access because of stigma. This is unfortunate as people drawn into healthcare are almost invariably motivated by a sense of compassion and, at the same time, are very much grounded in science and evidence. The fact that stigma around HIV can remain pervasive among people who are undoubtedly caring, kind,and well-informed points to the challenge inherent in the unconscious biases that can form deep within us and cloud our judgements, thoughts, and actions. The “Stigmavir” campaign addresses the issue with just the right touch of humour, imagining a world where a simple pill can cure stigma. This whimsical approach underscores a critical message: awareness and proactive efforts are necessary to overcome biases. This is what touched me most about the campaign, a level of empathy for those healthcare workers and a belief in their fundamental goodness. Unconscious biases don’t make healthcare providers bad people; it’s the recognition and effort to address these biases that matter. According to Casey House, it is looking to spark a movement among health care practitioners to create compassionate spaces for those living with or at risk of HIV. As they note, “Stigmavir is fictitious, it is an invitation to think about the way everyone in health care engages with people living with HIV; to reconsider how small actions can impact the people receiving care. What does health care look like without HIV stigma? Patients can build a trusting relationship with a health care provider, look forward to consistent treatment, and feel safe as they pursue good health. “ Casey House has also created a campaign website that offers health care providers additional resources on delivering compassionate care to those living with or at risk of HIV. The fact that the campaign video ends with dancing doctors, nurses, dentists, and other healthcare workers now cured of the disease of stigma (thanks to Stigmavir) conveys a sense of optimism. The fact that they are dancing together with their patients, is an extra-special touch. Stigma remains a significant barrier to healthcare. People with mental health issues or substance use disorders, for example, also often avoid seeking care due to fear of judgment. This reluctance can lead to worsening conditions and higher healthcare costs. Despite remarkable medical advancements and improved understanding of diseases like HIV, stigma continues to hinder progress. The solution lies in empathy and education.Healthcare providers need ongoing training in cultural competency and anti-stigma practices. Casey House’s campaign exemplifies how creativity and empathy can spark essential conversations and inspire action. Addressing stigma in healthcare is a collective responsibility, requiring efforts from individuals, institutions, and society.Let’s take the first step towards curing stigma – not with a pill, but through scientific literacy and understanding, compassion, and a commitment to equitable care for all. Delphic Research President and CEO, Jason Grier,spent six years on the board of Casey House, two years as vice-chair. For more on Casey House’s Stigmavir campaign: https://smashstigma.ca/ To learn more about the history of Casey House,please check out Nick Wood’s four-part podcast series, With Dignity: The Story of Casey House, wherever you get your podcasts.
Is the fog starting to lift around national pharmacare?
Is the fog starting to lift around national pharmacare? If Missouri is the “Show Me State”, HESA could be forgiven for being thought of as the “Show Me Committee” – at least when it comes to its examination of the Government of Canada’s national pharmacare legislation and what it could mean for patients living with diabetes. In recent hearings, the degree to which legislators and stakeholders alike sought clarity as to what exactly the government meant by national pharmacare and how it planned to proceed, made it clear that uncertainty was the only thing that was clear when it came to pharmacare. And, it’s not surprising, given the degree of confusion expressed by stakeholders, experts, and parliamentarians alike when it comes to the Government of Canada’s national pharmacare legislation, Bill C-64, which passed third reading in the House of Commons last week. The lack of clarity is a major concern for diabetes patients, given that diabetes has been the focus of the government’s first phase of its roll-out of its universal pharmacare plan. For one, the government’s proposed list of diabetes medicines represents just a small fraction of diabetes medications on the market today, with some of the most important diabetes medications missing altogether and representing a major misalignment from published, evidence-based, guidelines. In oral testimony and written briefs from those working to improve access to diabetes medications, significant questions were raised about how the government’s plan might impact on the availability of excluded products, could exacerbate drug shortages which are already an issue for diabetes medications and, indeed,generally make things worse for the 70% of Canadians who already access their diabetes medicines through private insurance. For some time, Canada’s approach to national pharmacare and, in particular, Bill C-64, has been a kind of Rorsarch Test for the entire community of health leaders and patient advocates. The Swiss physiciatrist and psychoanalyst, Hermann Rorshach, of course became famous for his famous inkblot tests which now bear his name. Those tests famously were designed to reflect the unconscious parts of one’s personality by encouraging a kind of projection of one’s inner self onto the visual stimuli represented by the nondescript inkblots. One could be forgiven for making the connection upon stumbling upon the transcripts from the debate and various witness testimony at HESA. It truly is difficult to believe that everyone is speaking about the same piece of legislation. The degree to which we simultaneously see people’s greatest hopes, as well as their most dreaded fears, projected on to the map of Canada’s three-page national pharmacare legislation is a wonder to behold.Pharmacare either represents the dawning of a whole new era for improved patient access or a nightmare waiting to unravel. “Trust us,” seems to be the government’s response, as it punts the answers to many of the questions to future decisions yet to be made. Fortunately, however, the fog may be lifting somewhat, thanks to health minister Mark Holland’s appearance before the committee. For one, it is clear that – whatever rhetoric one might use – the approach to national pharmacare will not be universal, single-payor, nor will it truly be national. Instead, if Holland is to be taken at his word, what we should expect to see is a series of bilateral agreements with provincial governments designed to enhance access to diabetes medicines (and devices), along with contraceptives, for that province’s population. And while it appears that a national formulary may establish a minimum standard for coverage (a bare bones “burlap cloak” as it was described at committee), the expectation is that provincial public plans would go beyond that and that private insurance coverage could continue to provide and augment what public plans will offer. Whether it accomplishes all this, without undermining existing coverage and wildly distorting the overall market for diabetes medications and devices in Canada, remains to be seen: too much of what Minister Holland is describing is dependent upon negotiations with the provinces which, he claims,he cannot begin until Bill C-64 is proclaimed into law. While there is still much that is unknown, at the very least, the minister’s comments at committee do appear to provide some clarity around the edges. That is a welcome development, indeed. View Minister Holland’s remarks at Committee here For transcripts of witness testimony or to access the 36 written briefs submitted to the committee, please click here