A person with Type 1 diabetes who recently relocated to Nova Scotia faced significant personal expenses while seeking assistance from provincial programs designed to offset the costs associated with insulin and related supplies.
Having transitioned to Bridgewater, N.S., earlier this year from British Columbia, where they benefited from coverage for essential devices like an insulin pump and glucose monitoring sensor, Beck Marie, 28, encountered challenges in accessing similar support in their new province. Lacking a primary care provider at the time, Marie noted that obtaining coverage in Nova Scotia for pumps and sensors necessitated approval from specific healthcare specialists based in the province.
Expressing frustration, Marie highlighted the difficulties in accessing a specialist, citing an 18-month wait time to see an endocrinologist, a key figure in diabetes treatment. In response, the province mentioned that various healthcare professionals, including pharmacists, could authorize applications, typically resulting in approval within a fortnight.
Despite this assertion, Marie recounted a four-month period of visiting multiple pharmacies, emergency departments, and clinics in search of assistance, all while bearing a financial burden of up to $800 monthly to cover insulin and devices costs. After extensive efforts, Marie eventually secured support for the glucose monitoring sensor program following visits to three different pharmacies and an emergency room referral to a local diabetes center.
Nova Scotia offers two distinct programs to assist with insulin pumps and glucose monitoring sensors, each requiring separate applications. Unlike British Columbia, where such items are covered under the provincially administered pharmacare program, Nova Scotia does not include them in its coverage. Diabetes Canada emphasized the vital role of devices in enhancing quality of life for users, despite cost being a significant barrier.
Looking ahead, Marie advocated for the establishment of a national plan while calling for enhancements to Nova Scotia’s existing programs. The Department of Health and Wellness declined an interview request but mentioned that most applications typically receive approval within two weeks. While Marie’s application was approved promptly upon submission, the duration of coverage granted remained a point of contention.
Moreover, the eligibility criteria for both programs are waived for existing pump users. With 35 diabetes centers spread across the province, individuals can seek assistance with applications through self-referral. Marie expressed difficulties in contacting the program and underscored the challenges faced in navigating the application process compared to other provinces.
In conclusion, Marie stressed the taxing nature of the process, emphasizing the need for a simpler and more streamlined approach to accessing vital care for individuals like themselves with diabetes.
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