EXPANDED BENEFIT FOR RESIDENTS WITH INHERITED METABOLIC DISEASES

Saskatchewan residents with complex inherited metabolic diseases will soon receive coverage for low-protein medical food.

The Ministry of Health will provide coverage for approximately 45 eligible clients for low-protein medical food.

This will result in estimated savings of $175,000 annually for these families.

"We are continually seeking ways to improve health care delivery for Saskatchewan people, while balancing our commitment to the public health care system," Health Minister Don McMorris said. "The added coverage for low-protein food will make treatment affordable and improve health outcomes of those with inherited metabolic conditions."

The types of low-protein food that will be covered are consistent with the recommendations for healthy eating from Canada's Food Guide. Currently, the ministry supplies metabolic formula to clients with Phenylketonuria (PKU).

"We are encouraged to see the provincial government addressing the needs of those who are born with a metabolic disorder," Children's Advocate Bob Pringle said. "The additional coverage of low-protein medical food will be a substantial financial relief to the affected families."

The coverage is effective January 1, 2012.

Two to four people per year are born in Saskatchewan with metabolic disorders, whereby they cannot process the protein found in everyday foods such as meat, eggs or even pasta. These people require special formula and low-protein medical food to manage their conditions.

-30-

For more information, contact:

Tyler McMurchy
Health
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4083
Email: tyler.mcmurchy@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-537-3594