The Canadian government has announced a significant modernization of the country's healthcare regulatory system, unveiling new measures that will help patients gain faster access to medicines and medical devices. Health Canada said the initiative is intended to streamline product reviews without compromising the rigorous standards that protect public health.

As part of the reforms, Health Canada has introduced a Ministerial Reliance Order, allowing regulators to make greater use of trusted international assessments to reduce unnecessary duplication and accelerate approvals. Over the past three months, the department has authorized 537 new drugs and medical devices, including three generic versions of semaglutide, making Canada the first G7 country to approve them.

Healthcare organizations and industry leaders welcomed the changes, saying they could improve access to innovative therapies while strengthening Canada's competitiveness in pharmaceutical research and life sciences. Officials also launched public consultations on the updated regulatory guidance and domestic manufacturing priorities for generic medicines.

The reforms are expected to strengthen Canada's healthcare system by shortening approval timelines, encouraging medical innovation, and ensuring patients receive timely access to safe, effective treatments while maintaining robust regulatory oversight.