How FASTRAX is transforming patient care and proving that innovation can scale

FASTRAX is a global digital initiative led by UCB to address one of rheumatology’s most persistent challenges: the delayed diagnosis of axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA). By creating integrated, country-specific solutions in partnership with healthcare systems, UCB helps streamline care pathways, reduce time to diagnosis and improve long-term outcomes. 

FASTRAX is active in several countries including Canada, France, the UK and the US, each tailored to address specific healthcare system dynamics.

In Canada, FASTRAX is delivered as a public-private partnership focused on accelerating diagnosis through a team-based triage model that integrates extended scope physiotherapists into the diagnostic pathway to accelerate time to diagnosis for the rheumatologists.

The Canadian program stands out for its rapid progression from pilot to multi-region implementation and its strong alignment with current system pressures. This article explores how FASTRAX in Canada is setting a new benchmark for scaling innovation and why now is the time for the country to shift from short-term pilots to long-term impact. 

From Chronic Delay to Coordinated Action

People living with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) often spend years seeking a diagnosis. The burden is physical, emotional and financial. For many, symptoms begin in their late 20s. Diagnosis often comes nearly a decade later.

But what if that timeline could be cut in half?

The approach behind FASTRAX is simple, meet patients earlier in the system and support patients with triage pathways that ensure faster access to specialists. It is already changing across Toronto, Ottawa, Thunder Bay and Quebec. More cities are taking notes. 

Putting Patients First is The Real Impact of FASTRAX

FASTRAX is not just pathway redesign. It is a meaningful shift in how people are seen, diagnosed and supported. 

In Canada, it is helping patients:

• Get on the right diagnostic pathway
• Be seen by the right team of specialists with the right training to offer comprehensive care
• Avoid unnecessary hospital visits and stay in control of their health

The program has grown from pilot to multi-region implementation, following the successful clinical model designed and launched by University Health Network (UHN). Its expansion, supported through collaboration with UCB, reflects strong alignment with system pressures, a commitment to long-term collaboration and measurable impact for patients.

Recognized for Excellence

Earlier this year, UHN, Canada's largest academic hospital, awarded FASTRAX the Sprott Surgery Recognition Award. Chosen from over 500 nominations, the award highlights FASTRAX as a standout in compassion, innovation and leadership in patient care.

Credibility Backed by Collaboration

In September 2025, FASTRAX was spotlighted by Longwoods, one of Canada's leading healthcare policy forums. UCB was invited to join a national panel of health leaders to explore how models like FASTRAX can shape care delivery across provinces.

These forums play a critical role in shaping policy dialogue. By engaging with partners across the ecosystem, this reinforces UCB’s commitment to advancing meaningful and sustainable solutions.

Designed for Scale, Built for Patients

Canada has long been described as "the land of pilot projects." But pilots do not change lives. Scaled programs do. FASTRAX has grown from a single promising clinic into a multi-site success story, with national oversight supporting regional adaptation and learning. It is an example of what is possible when we invest in solutions designed to last. While a full program evaluation is underway and results are expected in coming years, early data and frontline feedback suggest real-world benefits are already being delivered.

A Blueprint for Maximum Impact

Programs like FASTRAX show what happens when innovation is rooted in partnership, aligned to system needs and focused on patient outcomes. We can adopt small ideas and grow them exponentially to create large scale impact and address inequities.