What is the purpose of the Special Access Program (SAP) in Canada?

The Special Access Program (SAP) in Canada is designed to allow physicians to access and prescribe drugs that have not yet received formal approval for sale in the Canadian market. This program is particularly important for treating patients with serious or life-threatening conditions when conventional therapies have failed or are inadequate.

By enabling healthcare providers to obtain these unapproved medications, the SAP serves as a vital mechanism to provide patients with essential treatment options that may be their best or only chance at recovery or symptom relief. The process involves rigorous oversight to ensure patient safety, as physicians must apply for access to these drugs and demonstrate that the benefits outweigh any potential risks.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the purpose of the SAP. For instance, while it is crucial for pharmacies to have proper authorization and comply with regulations regarding drug distribution, the SAP is not intended for pharmacies to stock unapproved drugs without oversight. Additionally, the SAP does not focus on providing financial support for acquiring medications or regulating drug prices; its primary role is to facilitate access to necessary treatments that are not yet commercially available in Canada.