Hello Ulla & Joanne,
I agree that it’s extremely frustrating when medications are not accessible because they're not available or too costly and hope you'll both join our advocacy efforts here in Ontario.
In terms of how to access coverage for eprex and aranesp in Ontario, I
understand that private insurers will generally cover eprex or aranesp for
MDS patients without hesitation.
If you do not have private insurance, I’m told it is pretty straightforward
to get Individual Clinical Review (ICR) coverage for these medications
in Ontario and that this pretty much provides full coverage for patients
over 65 years of age.
Generally, patients in Ontario under 65 need to apply for the Trillium Drug Program (TDP). This Ontario government program: ”is intended for Ontario residents who have a valid Ontario Health Card and who have high prescription drug costs in relation to their net household income.” Patient contributions for part of the cost vary depending on their income and household size.
Details about Trillium are posted at:
http://www.health.gov.on.ca/english/.../trillium.html
Information about ICR is at
http://www.health.gov.on.ca/english/.../section8.html
You should talk to your hematologist (or your mom's hematologist) as this is something they should know about.
Best, Chris.