Hi, my name is Jennifer. I was diagnosed with stage III ductal carcinoma, estrogen and her2 positive, 2 out of 4 nodes involved december 04. I finished treatment chemotherapy June 04 and radiotherapy August 04. One month ago I went to my oncologist and asked about herceptin. He said that there is no clinical evidence to suggest that it would help me as I finished chemotherapy a little over a year ago, but it certainly wouldn't hurt given my age and strong heart. He suggested I start the treatment but since I fall outside of the hospitals herceptin guidelines, he will not be able to supply the herceptin. He will treat me through his private clinic but I must get my hands on the drug???? Can anyone help me please??? Is there a clinic in Canada where I can get this treatment?

Jennifer, it sounds like an insurance issue to me. Herceptin is very expensive, and although many oncologists are now giving it to their Stage III patients in hopes of staving off a recurrence, it's isn't actually FDA approved for earlier stage cancer; SO, if you have insurance, you would have to make a case for pre-authorization, hopefully with your onc's help. Then the hospital will be assured that insurance will cover the cost of the drug. If you don't have insurance, contact Genentech, the makers of Herceptin, and ask about their patient assistance program.
Here are some links to info that may help:


Genentech® Access to Care Foundation
https://www.spoconline.com/spoconline/herce...ltResources.jsp

Herceptin® (Trastuzumab) Home Page
https://www.spoconline.com/spoconline/herce...ent/welcome.jsp

Good Luck!

<3
Lolly

Jennifer,
Your doctor needs to write a letter to the provice for special dispensation. Otherwise, dall up genetec directly and ask them for support.

Please keep us posted,

Good luck,
Al

I don't know if Genentech markets Herceptin in Canada. You may have to try Roche instead.

Regards
joe