DIA, a global non-profit organization for life sciences professionals, will host discussions on Canada’s precision regulation initiatives, the enhancement of its clinical trial infrastructure, and international collaboration at the Canada Annual Meeting on November 14-15 in Gatineau, Quebec.
Health Canada is updating its regulatory frameworks to provide precise and adaptable responses to emerging challenges, keeping pace with innovations like advanced therapies, artificial intelligence (AI), and personalized medicine. To navigate the complexities of establishing flexible yet rigorous policies, the department has partnered with health agencies, including Brazil’s ANVISA, to share insights and expertise.
Canada boasts a competitive clinical trial environment known for its collaborative networks, such as N2, and public-private partnerships. While the industry prioritizes inclusivity and decentralized clinical trials, challenges remain in data collection for underrepresented groups.
“Canada’s biopharmaceutical sector is recognized for its expertise and global leadership, but it faces the challenge of responsibly integrating technological advancements,” said Tamei Elliott, Associate Director of Scientific Programs at DIA Americas. “By collaborating to address these challenges, we can develop solutions that expedite the delivery of safe and effective treatments to patients.”
The opening plenary session of the Canada Annual Meeting will feature recent amendments to the Food and Drugs Act, presented by Alysha Croker, Health Canada’s Director of the Centre for Policy, Pediatrics and International Collaboration, and Patricia Dechman, Acting Associate Director of the Strategic Horizontal Policy Division. These amendments will allow the Minister of Health to provide targeted regulatory exemptions and utilize information from select authorities to meet specific regulatory requirements.
Additional sessions will cover regulatory, clinical, and safety topics, including Health Canada’s latest AI applications, access to emerging treatments for rare diseases, and advancements in patient safety.
The event will bring together industry representatives, government officials, regulators, academics, and patient advocates from Canada and beyond to share insights and case studies. Speakers will include representatives from major companies such as AstraZeneca, Bristol Myers Squibb, GSK, Merck, Pfizer, and Roche.
About DIA
DIA is a global non-profit life science membership association dedicated to collaboration in drug, device, and diagnostics development. Founded in 1964 and headquartered in Washington, D.C., DIA provides networking opportunities, educational resources, and professional development programs to members in over 80 countries.
