Yesterday on the Trending 55 Hot Seat, Health Minister Tyler Shandro hinted that an announcement on a drug to treat a rare disease was coming in the near future.
This morning, Shandro announced the medication known as zolgensma will be funded on a case-by-case basis.
While Shandro could not discuss specific cases, two-year-old Max Sych of Fairview suffers from spinal muscular atrophy.
Many people have donated to support Mighty Max and Shandro adds that fundraising for treatment is also stressful.
Zolgensma is a form of gene replacement therapy that is administered via intravenous.
The treatment carries an approximate cost of $2.8 million CDN.
“Access to this treatment will mean a world of difference for these few brave children and their families, says Shandro.
“Alberta’s government recognizes the urgency families are experiencing in getting treatment for their children diagnosed with this disease and we are pleased to be able to provide interim funding to help them out.”
Specialist physicians who provide care to children with spinal muscular atrophy are able to submit an application on behalf of their patients for coverage to be considered.
– Kenny Trenton, Trending 55 Newsroom
