Diabetes Canada is pleased with the recent PEI Budget 2020 address that included the announcement of an investment in supplies and access related to blood glucose test strips, and additional support to the Insulin Pump Program that will extend benefits to Islanders up to and including age 25.
“During our annual MLA event last fall, the Minister of Health publicly supported several priorities for the diabetes community including the expansion of support for both blood glucose test strip coverage and the insulin pump program,” says Jake Reid, National Director for Government Relations and Advocacy with Diabetes Canada. “We’re pleased to see the follow-up on this commitment and also look forward to public renewal of the provincial diabetes strategy, which addresses gaps in services and enhances diabetes programs and supports on PEI."
There are more than 48,000 Islanders living with diabetes or prediabetes and prevalence is predicted to increase to 57,000 in just 10 years. Diabetes also costs the health-care system $18 million, rising to $22 million by 2030. Diabetes is a public health concern that deserves the support and attention of the government.
Diabetes Canada has also recommended the government commit to supporting a nation-wide diabetes strategy for Canada - Diabetes 3600. This is a coordinated, national approach to tackling the diabetes epidemic that is evidence-based and, when implemented, can help prevent millions of cases of diabetes and reduce hospitalizations.