ENHANCED SUPPORT FOR PEOPLE WITH DIABETES

Campaign Promise Improves Quality of Life

Saskatchewan is following through on its commitment to provide more support for people with diabetes. Health Minister Don McMorris announced today the government is meeting its election commitment to move two long-acting insulins from Exception Drug Status listing to full formulary listing, and expand the insulin pump program to cover residents up to the age of 25.

"Diabetes is a serious disease affecting a growing number of residents in our province," McMorris said. "These two measures will realize significant cost savings for families affected by the disease. The enhancements also help individuals with diabetes to better manage their conditions and make real progress in improving their quality of life. This is another way our government is putting patients first."

Effective immediately, two long-acting insulins, Lantus and Levemir, will be moved to open formulary, meaning patients do not need to meet any medical criteria to receive coverage. The amount a patient will pay for their insulin will be determined by their level of coverage under the Drug Plan.

Currently, only children under the age of 18 with type 1 diabetes are covered under the Children's Insulin Pump Program. Starting January 1, 2012, the new Saskatchewan Insulin Pump Program will expand its coverage to include young type 1 diabetic adults 25 years of age and under.

The Saskatchewan Insulin Pump Program will cover insulin pumps up to $6,300 and also help patients with the cost of insulin pump supplies, which cost approximately $250 per month.

Insulin pumps regulate blood sugar levels by delivering insulin at a steady rate. This in turn helps to prevent many long-term complications associated with diabetes, such as stroke, kidney failure, heart disease, blindness and amputation.

"Increasing access to long-lasting insulins, as well as expanding insulin pump coverage, are two strong moves in the right direction for the more than 75,000 Saskatchewan residents living with diabetes," Canadian Diabetes Association in Saskatchewan Regional Director Warren Wagne said. "We applaud the government's commitment to helping lead the fight against diabetes in our province and look forward to working together to keep the conversation on this serious, growing disease, top of mind."

It is estimated these changes will cost the government approximately $2.5 million annually.

Diabetes is one of the leading causes of disability and death in Saskatchewan. More information on diabetes prevention and treatment can be found at www.health.gov.sk.ca/about-diabetes.

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For more information, contact:

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