Ontario Health’s Comprehensive Cancer Biomarker Testing Program list of funded tests and testing sites was updated, effective july 1, 2026. new additions include CLDN 18.2 for gastric cancer, a pancreatic cancer panel and mismatch repair testing for any progressed solid tumour.

the updated State of Readiness report finds canada only partially ready for genomic medicine. Alberta and Newfoundland and Labrador are best prepared; Ontario made the most progress since 2023; only Québec has an established funding formula for new tests. the study was industry-funded.

results from a pan-canadian liquid biopsy program for advanced solid tumours were published in Current Oncology. the study was designed and led by a test manufacturer.

Canada’s Drug Agency consulted on a draft framework for assessing cancer biomarker tests and set up a dedicated team to assess companion diagnostics.

a five-year trial led by University Health Network will offer liquid biopsies to more than 7,000 patients after curative treatment, to study whether ctDNA can signal recurrence.

Canada’s Drug Agency published its Biomarker Assessment Framework for Cancer Care, a structured approach for provinces deciding which biomarker tests to assess and fund. provinces still make their own funding decisions.

Canada’s Drug Agency consulted on changes to drug reimbursement reviews, including assessing a broader range of tests linked to precision therapies (complementary as well as companion tests). consultation closed february 26.

New Brunswick introduced liquid biopsy for lung cancer patients, with samples collected at regional facilities across the province. funding came from the province and AstraZeneca.