As the threat of U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods continues to cast uncertainty over the healthcare sector, HealthPRO Canada remains at the forefront of national efforts to protect access to essential medical products. With the stability of Canada’s healthcare supply chain at stake, we are taking coordinated action to safeguard patients, support our members, and influence policy at the highest levels.

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS - MARCH 2025

National Consultation Submission

HealthPRO Canada submitted a formal comment to the Consultations on Canada’s Response to United States Tariffs on Canadian Goods, urging the exclusion of medications from Canada’s retaliatory tariff measures. This request reflects our ongoing commitment to protecting access to life-saving pharmaceuticals and reducing potential disruptions in patient care.

National Media Spotlight

Our President and CEO, Christine Donaldson, was featured in a CBC News national story highlighting how retaliatory tariffs could impact healthcare delivery. The coverage amplified the call for healthcare exemptions and helped raise public and policymaker awareness.

Advocacy Support for Pharmacy Leaders

To empower pharmacy teams and associations in their advocacy efforts, HealthPRO Canada developed a template letter to support appeals for the exclusion of pharmaceuticals from tariff measures. This tool was shared widely with pharmacy leaders, including members of CSHP (Canadian Society of Hospital Pharmacists).

Ongoing Government Engagement

HealthPRO Canada continues to engage directly with federal and provincial officials to advocate for immediate and long-term tariff exemptions on medical devices, supplies, and pharmaceuticals, ensuring patient care is not compromised by global trade dynamics.

 

ONGOING ACTIONS TO SAFEGUARD THE HEALTHCARE SUPPLY CHAIN

With uncertainty in the trade environment, we are taking proactive steps to build resilience and ensure the continuity of care for Canadians.

Strengthening Domestic Resilience

We are conducting a review of over 200,000 contract line items to assess country of origin and identify opportunities for “Made-in-Canada” solutions. Strengthening domestic manufacturing is a key focus as we look to reduce reliance on at-risk imports and reinforce supply chain stability.

Strategic Industry Collaboration

We are proud to work alongside key healthcare and industry partners, including:

• Medtech Canada
• Canadian Generic Pharmaceutical Association (CGPA)
• Innovative Medicines Canada
• Our Pharmacy Advisory Council and Healthcare Leadership Advisory Council

Together, we are advocating for sector-wide tariff exemptions and sharing insights to inform meaningful policy decisions.

Member-Focused Tools and Communication

To help members stay informed and navigate this evolving landscape, HealthPRO Canada has:

• Launched the Tariff Tracker Member Portal with real-time updates, FAQs, and resources
• Hosted a webinar with Canadian procurement lawyer Paul Emanuelli to provide legal guidance
• Issued weekly updates summarizing developments and HealthPRO Canada’s actions

Raising Awareness and Driving Dialogue

We continue to amplify the healthcare sector’s voice through public channels:

• An op-ed in Longwoods urging collaborative solutions to trade risks
• A feature on HealthCareCAN’s HQ Podcast, where our CEO joined Medtech Canada’s CEO to discuss potential impacts on patient care
• A joint press release with HealthCareCAN, emphasizing the urgency of protecting the healthcare supply chain

 

Looking Ahead

As tariff-related uncertainty continues, HealthPRO Canada is committed to protecting the supply of essential healthcare products and supporting our members through advocacy, collaboration, and practical tools. We will continue to engage with government, industry partners, and healthcare professionals to ensure that the unique needs of the healthcare sector are prioritized in Canada’s trade response.

By working together, we can help maintain a stable, resilient healthcare system that puts patient care first.