Alberta PCs promise free insulin pumps

The Alberta Progressive Conservatives are promising free insulin pumps for people with Type I diabetes, a disease that affects about 30,000 Albertans.

The availability of insulin pumps will help patients control the disease and reduce complications, said the Tories. 

The PCs estimate the initial cost of the program at $8.6 million, but expect the program to lead to net savings in the long run.

The Canadian Diabetes Association estimated the program could save the province $10.8 million over the next 20 years, the PCs said in a press release.

Total direct and indirect costs for diabetes in Alberta are estimated at $1.1 billion per year.