Welcome
The North American branch of the International Cancer Patient Coalition (ICPC) is focused on addressing disparities in cancer care in Canada and the United States while highlighting the unique opportunity the region presents as a global leader in healthcare innovation. Both countries have pioneered advancements in cancer research, precision medicine, and technology integration, yet significant inequities persist in translating these innovations into equitable access for all populations. Our programs aim to ensure that these lessons and innovations are shared and scaled globally while improving the equitable distribution of cancer care across Canada and the United States.
North America is at the forefront of developing and integrating biomarker testing and precision medicine into cancer care. However, access is unequal, with high costs and insurance barriers limiting availability in the U.S., and regional disparities in testing infrastructure in Canada. We propose collaborative approaches to subsidize biomarker testing, expand regional centers of excellence, and address logistical barriers in rural and indigenous communities. Lessons from U.S. private-public initiatives and Canada’s universal healthcare model can inform global approaches to equity in precision medicine.
Innovative therapies such as immunotherapies and CAR-T are often first introduced in North America, but access remains inequitable. In the U.S., cost is a significant barrier for uninsured and underinsured patients, while in Canada, capacity constraints in specialized centers lead to delays. We advocate for policy changes to reduce financial toxicity in the U.S., alongside federal investments in advanced oncology infrastructure in Canada. These efforts demonstrate how innovation can be systematically integrated into healthcare systems to enhance equity.
Our Global Cancer Care Equity Index reveals that despite high overall scores, significant disparities exist in rural and minority access to cancer care, and the region faces challenges in delivering cost-effective care.
North America offers some of the most advanced screening programs, including AI-driven early detection tools and integrated cancer registries. Yet, disparities persist, particularly among rural populations in both countries and marginalized communities in the U.S. We support scaling up community-based and mobile screening initiatives, using AI tools to optimize efficiency, and fostering cross-border collaborations to share best practices in early detection.
North America provides valuable insights into integrating innovation into healthcare systems. The U.S.’s ability to rapidly adopt novel therapies through private sector partnerships and Canada’s focus on equitable implementation through public health systems offer complementary approaches. These dual models can inform other regions on how to bridge innovation and accessibility in cancer care while balancing cost and equity.
The U.S. and Canada have embraced digital health solutions, from AI-powered diagnostics to telemedicine. However, challenges remain in ensuring these innovations reach underserved populations. For example, rural areas in both countries face infrastructure and connectivity gaps. We propose investing in digital infrastructure, expanding training for healthcare providers, and ensuring patient-centered approaches to AI adoption. North America’s leadership in digital health can serve as a blueprint for other regions looking to adopt similar technologies.
North America is a global leader in cancer clinical trials, but representation gaps remain, particularly among racial minorities, indigenous populations, and rural communities. Efforts like Canada’s precision medicine trials and the U.S.’s National Cancer Institute diversity initiatives provide a foundation for addressing these gaps. We advocate for expanding decentralized trials, increasing outreach to underrepresented groups, and harmonizing clinical trial regulations across North America to enhance participation and accessibility.
Canada and the U.S. are uniquely positioned to share learnings on healthcare innovation. Cross-border collaborations, such as partnerships in cancer data sharing and joint clinical trials, highlight the potential of working together to enhance outcomes. These collaborative efforts can serve as a model for global partnerships, showcasing how to translate innovation into actionable, equitable healthcare solutions.
By focusing on these priorities, the ICPC aims to not only address disparities in North America but also amplify the region’s role as a leader in global cancer care innovation. Through collaboration and equitable implementation, we strive to create a future where the benefits of innovation are accessible to all.
