Positron emission tomography (PET) scanning is a type of imaging exam available to eligible patients in Ontario. The PET Scans Ontario Program works with the Ministry of Health (Ministry) to coordinate PET scan services across the province.
The PET Scans Ontario Program is guided by the provincial PET Steering Committee, an interdisciplinary group of experts. They review scientific evidence and make recommendations to the Ministry. This process helps make sure a patient’s access to PET scan services is supported by the best available research.
We work with the Ministry and the PET Capital Planning Advisory Committee on the PET Capital Investment Strategy. The strategy aims to sustain and improve equitable access to high-quality PET scans to meet growing need.
Goals and Responsibilities
Through the PET Scans Ontario Program, we improve transparency, accountability and equity in the access to PET scan services by continually reviewing research to ensure PET scan use is based on the best available evidence.
We are accountable for the PET Steering Committee and responsible for the following:
- Overseeing PET scan services routinely funded through the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)
- Overseeing the PET Registry, which makes PET scans available to patients where evidence is weak but compelling, and further evidence is being collected in the Ontario setting
- Overseeing the PET Access Program, which considers case-by-case requests from physicians to provide PET scan services to patients who do not meet requirements for a routinely funded PET scan or the PET Registry
- Funding PET scan services for eligible patients
PET Steering Committee
A provincial PET Steering Committee identifies emerging indications (diseases or conditions) for the use of PET scanning, reviews scientific evidence and makes recommendations on the appropriate use of PET as a diagnostic or treatment assessment tool for patients. The committee includes clinical oncologists, nuclear medicine physicians, and other experts in PET technology and related areas.
For more information about the committee, including its function, membership and governance, refer to the PET Steering Committee Terms of Reference.
Committee Review Process
Regular review of scientific evidence helps identify and evaluate emerging indications – clinical situations where PET may impact patient care. These reviews help make sure we continue to meet the needs of Ontario patients.
The PET Steering Committee’s recommendations about the appropriate use of PET are based on review of:
- evidence in scientific literature
- outcomes data from Ontario’s evidence-building programs, such as the PET Registry
- engagement with treating clinician experts on the potential impact to patient management
The committee also welcomes recommendations or requests regarding the assessment of potential indications. Use the contact form to request a review of emerging evidence.
Consideration of scientific evidence
- Evidence from scientific literature is considered based on the potential impact of PET on patient management.
- Results from methodologically rigorous large studies are considered stronger evidence than results from less rigorous and/or smaller studies.
- Special consideration may be given for indications with weak but compelling evidence (for example, retrospective studies or smaller cohort trials with demonstration of significant impact on patient care).
- Evidence of sensitivity, specificity or accuracy alone – without evidence of impact on patient management – is not sufficient to recommend an indication.
Prioritization of indications
If the committee must decide which indications to review in which order, it will:
- prioritize indications that affect larger patient populations and/or with greater potential impact on patient care
- consider the date the request was submitted
Contact PET Scans Ontario
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