The Government of Saskatchewan is moving two long-acting insulins from exception drug status listing to full formulary listing, and expanding the insulin pump program to cover residents up to 25-years-old.
Effective immediately, two long-acting insulins, lantus and levemir, will be moved to the open formulary, meaning patients do not need to meet any medical criteria to receive coverage.
The amount a patient will pay for insulin will be determined by their level of coverage under the drug plan.
Starting January 1, 2012, the new Saskatchewan Insulin Pump Program will expand its coverage to include young type 1 diabetic adults 25-years-old and under.
The Saskatchewan Insulin Pump Program will cover the cost of insulin pumps up to $6,300 and will also help patients with the cost of insulin pump supplies, which cost approximately $250 per month.
“The enhancements also help individuals with diabetes to better manage their conditions and make real progress in improving their quality of life," said Health Minister Don McMorris.
"These two measures will realize significant cost savings for families affected by the disease.”
It is estimated these changes will cost the government approximately $2.5-million annually.
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.
Saskatchewan has more than 75-thousand residents living with diabetes and it is one of the leading causes of disability and death in the province.
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