Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension in Canada: Closing the Gaps
Discover the latest insights from leading Canadian and international experts on the state of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) care in Canada, and what must change to ensure that scientific progress truly reaches patients.
Download the White Paper: “Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension in Canada: Bridging the Gap Between Innovation and Access.”
Table of Contents
About the White Paper
Despite major advances in treatment, Canadians living with pulmonary arterial hypertension continue to face delayed diagnosis, fragmented care, and uneven access to life-saving therapies.
This investigative report brings together clinicians, policy experts, and patient advocates to examine Canada’s readiness for the next era of PAH care.
Developed through expert interviews, national survey data, and international comparisons, this white paper highlights the urgent reforms needed to improve outcomes, strengthen health system readiness, and reduce inequities across provinces.
Key Findings
- Diagnostic delays remain critical: Half of Canadian patients wait more than two years for a confirmed diagnosis.
- System readiness lags behind innovation: New therapies like sotatercept are approved but not yet accessible in many regions.
- Workforce shortages limit impact: PH centres deliver world-class care but lack nurses, pharmacists, and social workers to support complex therapy management.
- Registries are underutilized: Canada’s voluntary system prevents data-driven improvements seen in France and Germany.
- Equity gaps persist: Geography and provincial silos dictate access to testing and treatment, disproportionately affecting rural and Indigenous communities.
What You’ll Learn
- The current state of PAH care in Canada, including survival trends, system barriers, and therapy access.
- Expert consensus recommendations for reform in six key areas: diagnosis, workforce, therapy delivery, registry integration, education, and equity.
- Actionable insights for policymakers, clinicians, and advocates working to close the gap between innovation and access.
Who Should Read This Report
This white paper is pertinent reading for:
- Respirologists, cardiologists, and internists managing pulmonary hypertension
- Policy leaders and administrators in health ministries or payer organizations
- Patient advocacy organizations and allied health professionals
- Healthcare decision-makers involved in rare disease and chronic care planning
Contributors
The white paper was developed through collaboration with leading Canadian experts, including:
- Dr. Jason Weatherald, University of Alberta (Scientific Planning Committee Chair)
- Dr. Paul Hernandez, Canadian Thoracic Society (CTS)
- Dr. Nathan Brunner, Canadian Cardiovascular Society (CCS)
- Dr. David Langleben, McGill University
- Dr. Alan Kaplan, Family Physician Airways Group of Canada (FPAGC)
- Jennifer Lee, Canadian Society of Echocardiography (CSE)
- Jamie Myrah, Pulmonary Hypertension Association of Canada (PHA Canada)
- Beth Slaunwhite, Patient Expert
About RESPIPLUS™
RESPIPLUS™ is a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing respiratory health through evidence-based education and system change.
This white paper was developed by RESPIPLUS™, with the contribution of leading Canadian and international experts and with support from an independent educational grant from Merck Canada.
Download the Full Report
Gain insight into how we can transform the promise of medical innovation into equitable, accessible care for all Canadians living with PAH.
Related Resources
Continue exploring pulmonary hypertension care and education through our latest learning initiatives and expert-led programs:
The eXpand Podcast Season 6: Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension
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Episode 1 | Why Is Pulmonary Hypertension Still Misdiagnosed? (with Jamie Myrah)
Exploring the reasons behind delayed diagnosis and how awareness can drive earlier detection.
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A clear overview of WHO PH classification and its clinical implications.
Living with Pulmonary Hypertension: Daily Management Tips
Practical strategies to improve daily life and emotional well-being.
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How timely detection and multidisciplinary care can change patient outcomes.
Learn More About Pulmonary Hypertension
For a deeper understanding of pulmonary hypertension, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment strategies, visit our comprehensive educational page: