Patients deserve access to medicines

Letter to the Editor published in the Edmonton Journal on August 13, 2007

Re: “Alberta Health to end Celebrex coverage for most arthritis patients: Anti-inflammatory drug associated with increased risk of heart problems,” The Journal, Aug. 4.

There is little doubt that some patients can thrive on a medication where others can’t tolerate it. What is important is that patients and doctors are able to make treatment choices from a full range of options, giving consideration to a host of complicating health issues while weighing risks and benefits.

By deciding to drop coverage of the drug Celebrex, except for a narrow patient group, Alberta Health is chipping away at patients’ right to optimal care.

Louise Binder, Toronto