Expert advice and analysis on appropriate use program and policy interventions

The Canadian Drug Agency Transition Office (CDATO) has taken an engagement-informed approach to understand and analyze the issues, concerns, and opportunities facing Canada’s pharmaceutical management system. Since spring 2021, CDATO has held more than 275 bilateral meetings and roundtables with provinces and territories, health system partners and a wide range of stakeholders to understand pharmaceutical system strengths and challenges and obtain advice on the functions and structure of a potential Canadian Drug Agency (CDA). In consideration of this feedback, CDATO is advancing initial work to support development of core functions proposed for the CDA, which includes the appropriate use of prescription medications. CDATO requires expert advice and analysis to support the development of an appropriate use core function, which is aimed at improving health outcomes and supporting the prescriber and patient communities. Work will include conducting independent analysis of program and policy best practices, interviews with provinces and territories (PTs) and key health system stakeholders, a review of barriers and facilitators for implementation and recommendations for the design of a decision tool to support decision makers to select appropriate use interventions relevant to their context and drug class. Work may also include reviewing and contributing to draft products prepared by the CDATO. The Contractor will also participate in meetings with the CDATO and the appropriate use advisory committee on the development of options as needed. Potential for additional contract activities may be pursued at the discretion of the Project Authority for tool development.