Postby Cb75 » Fri Jul 26, 2013 7:40 am
I Amin Toronto Canada. I think that generally the treatment is the same. However, you are correct about access to certain drugs. For example, I was not given Avastin as a first line drug since I was resectable. However, I have seen quite a few people here from thus that hat received it. I was told by my oncologist that since I had no visible signs of cancer, Avastin would provide me no benefit. So, Avastin, and any other drugs, have been 'saved' should the cancer come back. I did some research on my own and found some studies to support what my oncologist had told me. However, what he didn't tell me is that to obtain Avastin an application and recommendation has to be made for funding. I also believe that funding is limited to twelve doses. I am not sure if my personal insurance benefits would kick in after that to cover. This is one example. The other big difference is that in Ontario, pet scans are very very rare. I have not had a pet scan. I have had ct, MRI and ultra sounds.
You will find that coverage differs from province to province. There is a website, recently published, information about what is covered in each province and the differences. I will post the link when I find it.
However, what I will say is that I am being treated at one of the best hospitals in the world for cancer treatment and research, that I have received great care, two surgeries, a number of ct scans, port placement, counselling, and chemo and to date all that I have paid for was an upgrade to a private hospital room, which for both hospital stays cost me about $600.
I am currently Ned after a colon and liver resection and 12 rounds of chemo. I am being monitored with bloodworm and ct scans every 3 to 4 months. Overall, I think the standard of care is about the same.
However, on another note you should verify that your husband would still be eligible to gain residency status in Canada with his health condition. I assume he is not already a Canadian citizen? If this is the case, the immigration authorities may refuse his visa to work here on the basis of his ore existing condition. Also note, OHIP, or other provincial healthcare generally takes a few months to kick in.
Carmen
39y female Stage IV
diagnosed April 2012
sigmoid resect May 2012
liver resect Aug 2012
Folfox Oct 2012
lungs Sep 2013
R and L laser lung resection Nov 2013/Feb 2014
FOLFIRI and Avastin Apr 2014 ongoing...