Over the past decade, the Retina Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Program for Intraocular Disease (RAPID) pilot project has been giving patients sight-saving injections directly into the eye, using advanced medications. Building on this success, Alberta’s government is launching a new permanent program, the Alberta Retinal Treatment Program, effective Oct. 1. The new program will expand eligibility by 2,000 Albertans, increase treatment options from three to six drugs, and allow all ophthalmologists in Alberta to participate.
Every year, thousands of Albertans face vision loss from retinal conditions, which can cause permanent blindness if not treated. Historically, treatment options were limited, costly and not always easy to access. The permanent and expanded program will ensure patients have more choice in their care and better access across the province. These injections protect vision, prevent further loss and give patients a chance to maintain their independence and quality of life. In 2024–25 alone, almost 23,000 Albertans received care through the pilot, with seniors making up three-quarters of those treated.
“With more seniors in our province every year, getting timely vision-protecting treatment is more important than ever. This new program builds on the pilot’s success and offers even more benefits for Albertans.”
All medications in the program are free, with no co-payments or out-of-pocket costs. Previously, some patients had to pay premiums or co-payments to access these drugs. The permanent program ensures all Albertans receive treatment on equal terms, with no requirement to have government-sponsored or private drug coverage in order to be eligible.
“Alberta's new pharmaceutical program for retinal disease is a significant step forward for both patients and physicians. By expanding access to advanced therapies regardless of insurance coverage, it bridges the gaps between rural and urban care, empowers ophthalmologists to deliver state-of-the-art treatment, and strengthens Alberta's ability to attract and retain retina specialists; a model for the rest of Canada.”
By building on the pilot’s success, the Alberta Retinal Treatment Program will protect the vision of thousands of Albertans while improving access to care when and where it’s needed.
Quick facts
- The program also expands the choice of drugs, adding Vabysmo, Eylea HD, and Triesence to existing options including Eylea, Lucentis, and Avastin.
- A total of 22 retinal specialists currently participate in the RAPID pilot project, and the permanent program will be open to all 150 ophthalmologists across Alberta.
- In the 2024-2025 fiscal year, RAPID is estimated to have provided up to $111 million in cost avoidance, and the permanent program could save an additional $27 million annually.
- The RAPID pilot project has provided eye care to Albertans living with retinal conditions since October 2015.
- The pilot program was offered exclusively in Edmonton, Calgary and Medicine Hat.