OCT Screening Hydroxychloroquine Coverage | Lupus Canada Advocacy
OCT Screening Hydroxychloroquine Advocacy Campaign
Lupus Canada advocacy initiative calling for equitable access to medically recommended OCT screening across Canada.
Canadians living with lupus often rely on long term hydroxychloroquine to prevent flares and organ damage. While hydroxychloroquine is an essential medication, it carries a known risk of retinal toxicity that can lead to permanent vision loss if not detected early.
Experts recommend annual optical coherence tomography (OCT) screening for patients on long term hydroxychloroquine. However, public coverage of OCT screening varies across provinces, creating financial barriers to essential preventive care.
No one should risk losing their vision because they cannot afford a recommended screening test.
This advocacy action is powered by NewMode and connects you directly to the appropriate decision makers in your region.
The Policy Gap
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Hydroxychloroquine helps prevent lupus flares and organ damage
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Long term use carries a risk of retinal toxicity
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Retinal damage may occur silently before symptoms appear
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Annual OCT screening allows early detection
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Coverage for OCT screening is inconsistent across Canada
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Many patients must pay out of pocket or rely on private insurance
The Equity Concern
Many people living with lupus experience disability, reduced income, and financial strain.
When OCT screening is not publicly covered, patients may be asked to pay out of pocket, often $100 or more per year, or go without screening. These financial barriers can delay detection and increase the risk of preventable vision loss.
No one should have to risk their vision because they cannot afford a medically recommended screening test.
What Lupus Canada Is Calling For
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Hydroxychloroquine helps prevent lupus flares and organ damage
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Long term use carries a risk of retinal toxicity
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Retinal damage may occur silently before symptoms appear
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Annual OCT screening allows early detection
-
Coverage for OCT screening is inconsistent across Canada
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Many patients must pay out of pocket or rely on private insurance
Universal Provincial Coverage
Public coverage of annual OCT screening for patients on long term hydroxychloroquine.
Alignment With Clinical Guidelines
Health plan coverage that reflects evidence based recommendations for retinal monitoring.
Removal of Financial Barriers
Preventive screening that is accessible regardless of income or postal code.
Why This Matters
Hydroxychloroquine remains a cornerstone treatment for lupus. OCT screening prevents avoidable disability and protects independence, employment, and quality of life.
This campaign represents a concrete, achievable policy change that aligns with Canada’s commitment to equitable access to medically necessary care.
For Donors and Supporters
This initiative demonstrates Lupus Canada’s commitment to advocacy beyond research funding. By addressing systemic barriers in healthcare access, this campaign works to prevent avoidable harm and strengthen health equity for Canadians living with lupus.