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Coverage For Insulin Pumps Expands

Jun 12, 2018 | 12:36 PM

The BC government will start covering the cost of insulin pumps for all diabetics who want one.

Health Minister Adrian Dix says the pumps cost about $6,000, and allow patients to better manage their health.

“It’s essentially a computerized device that gives continuous injections. You have control over the device that provides a continuous supply of insulin through the day,” says Dix who is a diabetic himself.

Dix says the current age restriction of up to 25 for pump coverage, will be removed on July 3rd, meaning anyone with diabetes who meets the requirements will be covered.

“Why it’s an effective thing — particularly for children but for people who have been using them all their lives — is it provides a more continuous supply. It’s like what the body does, and the body reacts well to that,” adds Dix.

About 485-thousand British Columbians live with diabetes.

It’s expected about 830 adults over 25 years old, will benefit from the expansion in the first year.