Sources of financial assistance for diabetes supplies

The cost of diabetes medications, supplies and devices can run high and pose a real financial burden. In this article, we provide information and links to help you or the person you support find out about sources of financial assistance for diabetes supplies.

The need is great

Most people without diabetes have no idea of the expenses related to the disease, which can be significant. For example, the cost of an insulin pump is between $6,000 and $7,500. Many provincial government and private health plans cover this cost, but there may be restrictions.  For instance, in British Columbia, insulin pump funding is provided for children but cuts off at age 18. This is a time of many challenges for young people with diabetes as they face the move from pediatric to adult diabetes care. The need to find the money to pay for a replacement pump can add greatly to the stress.

Other typical diabetes expenses range from medications to blood glucose meters, strips, and syringes etc.

Sources of financial assistance

The Canadian Diabetes Association has been advocating for many years for equal access to diabetes care and funding across Canada, and their efforts are gradually paying off.

To find out what government coverage is provided in your area, check the provincial links provided by the Public Health Agency of Canada.

Government assistance is also available in some circumstances through the Canadian Disability Tax Credit offered by Revenue Canada. For example, those who require an intensive insulin management system may qualify.  Get more information.

Some not for profit organizations provide support in different ways for those in need. For example:

• S.U.G.A.R. is a national charity that distributes insulin pumps based on need.
• The Diabetes Hope Foundation offers scholarships for teens and young adults with diabetes who meet certain criteria.

Some pharmaceutical companies also offer compassionate care support. For example, the Lilly Canada Cares Insulin Assistance Program is provided by Lilly Canada for those who cannot afford insulin. Call for more information: 1-866-466-1366.

If you have a social worker on your team, make an appointment to discuss the financial aid available in your province for people with diabetes. Social workers are often also able to provide application forms and can guide you through the process.

For more helpful information on available financial support for diabetics, see our expert social worker’s blog on this site: The cost of diabetes and Seniors and diabetes.

How to lobby for more government support

The Canadian Diabetes Association’s efforts are showing the power of advocacy to improve life for people with diabetes. They have published a report detailing the challenges posed by lack of equal access: Canada at the Tipping Point.

Contact the Association to volunteer to join their advocacy efforts. You can also make a difference on your own by writing to your local member of parliament. Ask for their support in getting equal access to care and funding for all people with diabetes across Canada.