Alberta to cover more supplies used by diabetics

The Alberta government is covering more of the supplies used by insulin-dependent diabetics to monitor their blood glucose.

The province will fund up to $600 per person per year to pay for supplies like syringes, needles, test strips and lancets through the Blue Cross for Seniors Plan, Non-Group and Palliative Care Drug Plans.

"This will lessen the financial burden on insulin-treated Albertans and support them in managing their diabetes," said Alberta Health Minister Fred Horne.

The Alberta Diabetes Institute is delighted with the extra coverage, which starts on July 1.

"Like so many other Albertans and Canadians living with chronic medical conditions, Albertans living with diabetes are personally responsible for a large part of their own management," said Dr. Jeffrey Johnson.

The $13.3 million in funding will help more than 20,000 insulin-dependent Albertans and 1,500 women with gestational diabetes.

Lantus and Levemir, two long-lasting insulins, were also added to the province's drug list.