Manitobans living with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) could gain access to publicly funded treatments under revised national recommendations accepted by the provincial government. Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care Minister Uzoma Asagwara said Oct. 28 that the change follows a provincial request for a reassessment of drug eligibility on behalf of patients and their families. “When Manitobans living with spinal muscular atrophy and their families came forward asking for access to treatment, we listened and we took action,” said Asagwara. “We advocated for a national review because we knew these patients deserved to have their voices heard and the evidence reconsidered. That advocacy has helped bring about an important change, and we're committed to making sure it translates into better access to care.” A rare genetic disease, SMA causes loss of motor function and increasing muscle weakness. The disease can affect people's ability to carry out daily activities and maintain their independence. Related Stories: Three months after scoliosis surgery, Emma Phommarath sees progress Flu shot campaign launches, as influenza season begins in Southern Manitoba “The CDA’s decision to expand access to these medications is a life-changing moment for me, my family and the SMA community,” said Jeremy Bray, SMA patient advocate. He said the decision could give people with SMA more opportunities to live fulfilling lives. “This decision will allow people like me the opportunity to live fulfilling, healthy and productive lives for longer by accessing treatments which have the best chance of stopping or reversing the progression of this disease." The provincial government follows national recommendations when determining public coverage for medications. Previous recommendations limited eligibility for Evrysdi (risdiplam) and Spinraza (nusinersen), excluding some patients from publicly funded treatment. After hearing concerns from patients and their families, Manitoba requested that Canada's Drug Agency (CDA) reconsider the eligibility criteria. The agency has since revised its recommendations to support broader access to publicly funded treatment for some patients who were previously excluded. Patients must still be assessed by a specialist and meet clinical eligibility requirements to qualify for coverage. Asagwara said previously rejected coverage requests are being reviewed as the province works to expand access to treatment.