Understanding drug exceptional access programs (DEAPs) in Canada, and their associated social and political issues

Abstract

Abstract Drug exceptional access programs (DEAPs) exist across Canada to address gaps in access to pharmaceuticals. These programs circumvent standard procedures, raising epistemic, economic, social and political issues. This commentary provides insights into these issues by revealing the context and procedures on which these programs depend.

Keywords

• Exception
• Gene therapies
• Canada
• Access
• Pharmaceuticals
• Equity