Alberta doctor with diabetic children waiting for clarity on insulin pump coverage

An Alberta doctor is voicing her concern and frustration with the provincial government’s handling of the Insulin Pump Therapy Program.

Previously announced changes to funding for insulin pumps were put on hold last month when people with Type 1 diabetes voiced worries about potential financial or medical hardship.

Despite the UCP holding off on the decision, a doctor says it isn’t enough for families who live with Type 1 diabetes.

“The proposed changes to the insulin pump funding was made without any consultation with the people who use it,” Dr. Natalie Rezansoff told CityNews.

Rezansoff’s children have diabetes.

“The fees that will be required to use an insulin pump if the proposed changes go through will make insulin pumps unattainable to some and difficult to get for more.”

READ: Type 1 diabetics disappointed with Alberta’s handling of insulin pump coverage

Diabetic patients, especially children, are left with no word on what the province plans to do next.

“I think what people need to understand is that being able to live some sort of resemblance of a normal life with Type 1 diabetes means that this program is moreso a necessity than a luxury,” said epidemiology student Jamie Boisvenue.

Type 1 diabetes usually starts in childhood when the body’s auto-immune cells attack part of the pancreas. It differs from Type 2 diabetes as it is not lifestyle or diet related.

Type 1 is fatal if left untreated and is a financial burden for those living with the life-long disease.

“Managing Type 1 diabetes is extremely expensive,” added Boisvenue. “Even with private insurance plans. Without the program, this can lead to things that are very unsafe, like rationing insulin or reusing supplies and this can lead to having devastating complications.”

In a statement to CityNews, Alberta Ministry of Health says it is conducting a “more comprehensive consultation process.”

“Minister (Jason) Copping has committed to not move forward with any changes to the program until all stakeholders and all those affected have a chance to voice their concerns.

“Minister Copping has promised Albertans that everyone who has an insulin pump will be able to keep it and he is satisfied a full consultation process has been completed.”

Type 1 diabetics want more clarity though, and consultation surrounding the proposed changes to the provincial program that provides insulin pumps and supplies to those without coverage.

“We’re very lucky to live in this age and have all of these new technologies available and to make this disease a little less of a burden, so my hope is we can continue to have these technologies available,” said Rezansoff.