Alberta Launches Permanent Retinal Treatment Program Effective Oct. 1

URGENT UPDATE: Alberta officials have just announced a groundbreaking enhancement to eye care services with the launch of the permanent Alberta Retinal Treatment Program, effective October 1, 2023. This significant move will expand access to vital retinal treatments for an additional 2,000 Albertans, ensuring timely, high-quality care for those facing vision loss.

For over a decade, the Retina Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Program for Intraocular Disease (RAPID) pilot project has been delivering sight-saving injections directly into patients’ eyes. Building on its proven success, the new program will increase treatment options from three to six drugs, and allow all ophthalmologists across the province to participate in this essential service.

Each year, thousands of Albertans confront the threat of permanent blindness due to retinal conditions. Previously, treatment options were often limited and costly, making access challenging. This permanent program aims to eliminate those barriers, providing a broader range of choices and improved access to care throughout Alberta.

Provincial officials emphasize the importance of these injections, which not only protect vision but also help maintain patients’ independence and quality of life. In the 2024–25 period alone, nearly 23,000 Albertans received care through the pilot program, with seniors representing a staggering 75% of those treated.

“With more seniors in our province every year, getting timely vision-protecting treatment is more important than ever,” stated Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Primary and Preventative Health Services. “This new program builds on the pilot’s success and offers even more benefits for Albertans.”

The Alberta government has also confirmed that all medications within the program will be provided at no cost to patients, with zero co-payments or out-of-pocket expenses. Previously, some patients faced premiums or co-payments to access essential medications. Now, the aim is to ensure equitable treatment for all Albertans, regardless of their insurance coverage.

“Alberta’s new pharmaceutical program for retinal disease is a significant step forward for both patients and physicians,” commented Dr. Faazil Kassam, an ophthalmologist. “By expanding access to advanced therapies regardless of insurance coverage, it bridges the gaps between rural and urban care, empowers ophthalmologists to deliver state-of-the-art treatment, and strengthens Alberta’s ability to attract and retain retina specialists; a model for the rest of Canada.”

This announcement marks an essential milestone in Alberta’s healthcare system, promising improved outcomes for those at risk of vision loss. As the program rolls out on October 1, all eyes will be on how it transforms the landscape of retinal care in the province.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story and how it impacts the lives of Albertans across the province.