New drug coverage for bronchitis and emphysema sufferers

Chronic bronchitis and emphysema suffers can now benefit from drug coverage announced by B.C. Health Minister George Abbott today.

B.C. PharmaCare coverage is now in place medication tiotropium, also known as Spiriva.

"Anyone who has had difficulty breathing knows how terrifying these diseases can be," said Abbott. "Our government is now adding this additional treatment option to help them breathe easier and improve their quality of life."
The medication is expected to help patients suffering from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) that have not been responsive to other treatments, Abbott explained in a news release.

Dr. Frank Ervin, president of the BC Thoracic Society, said the announcement is great news for COPD sufferers.

"Many of these patients will now enjoy a much improved quality of life and be less likely to require emergency treatment for their disease," Ervin said.

According to the B.C. Health Ministry, government worked with respirologists and other B.C health professionals for more than a year to develop eligibility criteria for the drug.

About 53,000 British Columbians are currently being treated with drugs for COPD. Those with moderate to severe symptoms will be eligible for the newly covered drug if standard drug therapy is shown not to work after three months.

PharmaCare estimates initially about 6,000 patients could receive coverage for tiotropium - a number expected to grow over time - at a cost of up to $3 million or more.

As of today physicians can apply for Special Authority coverage of tiotropium for patients who meet PharmaCare's criteria.

source:www.canada.com