Means testing

Position statement

Where governments choose to use means testing, the means test criteria must be set at a level which ensures that the cost of caring for diabetes is not a barrier or a burden to the individual.

Definition

Means testing is a process whereby an individual’s access to products or services is dependent on that person’s financial ability to pay falling within preset criteria. If those criteria are exceeded, the person is found to be ineligible for government help.

Background and rationale

Due to the high cost of managing diabetes, the issue of means testing is of particular importance for people with diabetes, particularly those with low income. Often, people with diabetes who do not satisfy the means test criteria will still be unable to afford to pay for their diabetes supplies. Traditionally, means test criteria set by governments for other purposes such as welfare or legal aid have been set so low that many of those who "fail" the means test are left unable to properly care for themselves.

Long term costs to the medical system of improper preventative care and management of diabetes, as well the savings in the face of good quality care, are well-documented. In addition, administrative and infrastructure costs associated with implementing any means testing system will offset potential savings.