Equity of Access to Disease-Modifying Therapy for Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis: A Survey of Canadian Prescribers

A perceived barrier to effective treatment of pediatric-onset multiple sclerosis (POMS) is access to disease-modifying therapies (DMTs). An online Canada-wide survey of POMS DMT prescribers was used to identify patterns in, and barriers to, DMT access. Nineteen prescribers provided responses. Overall, DMT access via private versus government drug plans was variable. First-generation (e.g., beta-interferon) DMTs were more accessible via government plans versus second-generation DMTs (e.g., ocrelizumab). Most DMTs were available through private insurance plans. B-cell depleting therapies were the most difficult to access. Variability in DMT access for POMS raises concerns about health equity and care optimization.