CAPT-ACTP’s roots date to the early 1990s, when pharmacoepidemiology and pharmacoeconomics were emerging rapidly in Canada. In 1993, the first Canadian Pharmacoepidemiology Forum created a unique national space for researchers, governments, industry, and decision-makers to exchange ideas in a field that previously had no dedicated platform.

The strong interest in the Forum led to the founding of CAPT in 1996, with a deliberate focus on “population therapeutics” to reflect a broader, more inclusive approach to studying medication use, health outcomes, and health policy.

CAPT conferences were held annually across Canada until 2004, when the association joined the Canadian Therapeutics Congress. After 2008, CAPT re-established its stand-alone annual meeting, continuing its commitment to cross-sector collaboration.

Our evolution and role today

Over the years, CAPT-ACTP has matured into a national voice on population therapeutics, supporting scientific innovation, policy discussions, and the training of emerging researchers. The association continues to balance its academic foundation with engagement from government, industry, and patient perspectives, one of its founding strengths.