NDP, advocate call for expanded insulin pump coverage for all patients with Type 1 diabetes

Today NDP Health Critic Vicki Mowat was joined by Paul Kuspira, who has Type 1 diabetes and is an insulin pump user, to call on the government to provide coverage for everyone with Type 1 diabetes who uses a pump in the province.

“Diabetes is a growing problem in Saskatchewan and right now, the provincial government is letting people like Paul down by not providing coverage for pumps for those over 25,” Mowat said. “There is no reason for the government to not follow in the steps of Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario and the territories who already provide coverage.”

An insulin pump must be replaced every five years, and if you’re over 25, it’ll cost over $7,000 out of pocket, and generally isn’t covered by insurance.

“Access to an insulin pump is a quality-of-life issue for me,” said Kuspira. “I want to be in control of my diabetes, not have it control me, but these high costs are a barrier to that.”

“The government is letting people with diabetes down when they turn 26,” Mowat said. “Having access to a pump shouldn’t just be for those who can afford it, it should be available to everyone.”

Latest posts

BECK SEEKS COMMITMENT FROM FEDERAL LEADERS ON MAJOR SASKATCHEWAN PRIORITIES

Saskatchewan NDP Leader Includes Calls For Action On Areas Ignored By Sask. Party — Equalization, Affordable Childcare And Expanding Rural Broadband 

REGINA – As the long-awaited federal election campaign kicks into gear, Saskatchewan NDP Leader Carla Beck has written to the leaders of Canada’s three main political parties to outline a series of priorities to address major issues facing the province right now and to build a bright future. 

Share this post