DIABETIC SUPPLIES COVERED ON JULY 1ST

Released on June 27, 2003

Diabetic supplies such as needles, syringes, lancets and swabs will be added to the Saskatchewan Drug Plan, effective July 1, helping thousands of people who have high drug costs and low incomes.

The drug plan is targeted to people with high drug costs, low incomes, or a combination of both. Over 15,000 people with diabetes who currently receive benefits through the Saskatchewan Drug Plan will see their benefits increase to cover diabetic supplies.

Many other diabetics will become eligible for assistance as a result of the drug plan expansion. Those not currently receiving benefits can contact the Saskatchewan Drug Plan toll free at 1-800-667-7581, in Regina 787-3317, or consult their pharmacist about program eligibility.

Insulin, type II diabetic drugs and blood glucose test strips are already covered under the drug plan, and diabetic supplies will be covered in the same manner.

Expanding the drug plan to include diabetic supplies is projected to cost $3.3 million over a nine-month period in 2003-04, and $4.8 million in 2004-05.

"Diabetes is a serious disease affecting a growing number of residents, and we want to support people so they can manage their care properly and avoid the serious complications that can occur," Health Minister John Nilson said. "The expanded coverage will help ease the burden on Saskatchewan residents who need these supplies, but suffer financial hardship as a result."

Expanding the coverage is part of the government's commitment under the First Ministers' Health Accord to improve access to primary care, home care and catastrophic drug coverage. "The top priority of our Action Plan for Saskatchewan Health Care is improving the quality of health care services and access to care, while ensuring our health care system is sustainable in the future," Nilson said.

The cost of supplies for a type I diabetic ranges from $35 to $50 per month, and the benefit provided to drug plan recipients will vary on an individual basis.

Currently, the drug plan covers about 3,500 products and subsidizes the cost of prescription drugs for approximately 106,000 families.

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For More Information, Contact:

Mark Rathwell Health Regina Phone: (306)787-4083 Email: mrathwell@health.gov.sk.ca Cell: (306)537-3593