BR NL Diabetic Cuts – CP

Source: The Canadian Press – Broadcast wire
Jun 24, 2016 6:14

ST. JOHN’S, N.L. – A Newfoundland politician is raising concerns over the Liberal government’s decision to cut health-care costs by limiting the number of diabetic test strips.

Conservative M-H-A Steve Kent says any costs saved now are minimal compared to the potential health risks down the road.

He says despite Health Minister John Haggie’s reassurance that patients in need of extra strips can obtain them through a special authorization, the process is often difficult.

Kent — who once served as health minister — says the process is problematic for patients, doctors, and pharmacists.

Jake Reid of the Canadian Diabetes Association says that while the provincial government’s guidelines align with theirs in some areas, there are discrepancies.

In the proposed category of patients who do not require insulin — but do use test strips — patients would receive only 50 strips a year.

Reid says that is well below their guidelines.

Reid says that non-insulin dependent patients should receive 200 strips a year.

(VOCM)