3 min read
Written by Diana Bumstead
There is abundant information circulating showing that a high percentage of our client population lives with diabetes. In 2008 York University researchers found those living in poverty had twice or triple the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes. Health Council Canada says the rates of diabetes are highest among Aboriginal communities, low-income individuals and people of particular ethnic groups. The focus of this article is resources that may be useful for our clients with diabetes.
According to the Canadian Diabetes Association website, Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin or use insulin properly. Symptoms of type 2 diabetes include tingling, numbness, pain in the hands, feet, frequent urination or unusual thirst. Diabetes can be difficult to manage on a low income. There are some recent initiatives; however, that may be of assistance. For some patients information about these resources may beneficially impact their financial and overall health bottom line.
For instance, for a limited time Canadians can request a free blood monitoring kit; http://www.diabetes.ca/diabetes-and-you/meter/ or 1–800-BANTING. Individuals with a diagnosis of diabetes that live in Waterloo region can also self refer to a diabetes education program. If clients have a family doctor their doctor can refer them as well. (It’s apparently helpful if patients have up to date blood work). The self-referral number is 519- 653–1470 x. 372 and www.waterloowellingtondiabetes.ca is the website that lists more information and upcoming diabetes events and programs.
Beginning in January, the Self Help Alliance in Kitchener and Cambridge offer Take Charge Workshops, free six week, 2 hour programs for individuals living with any chronic condition. Interested individuals can register at [email protected]or call 1–866–337- 3318. The cost of the program is covered by the government.
Several pharmacies in the region participate in the Community Pharmacy Outreach Program (CPOP). These pharmacists are knowledgeable about diabetes and have up to date information on diabetes events and programs. Here are the local CPOP pharmacies listed on the Canadian Diabetes Association website: Riepert Pharmacy (Kitchener), Preston Medical Pharmacy (Cambridge), K-W Pharmacy Guardian/ Rexall (Waterloo), Cook’s Pharmacy (New Hamburg).
According to the Ontario Area office of the Canadian Diabetes Association there are a few financial assistance programs to help those with diabetes cope financially with the disease. For instance Syringes for Seniors is a program of the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care that can provide an annual grant of $170 for the purchase of syringes and pen needles for seniors over age 65 who need insulin daily. Participants must be Ontario residents with a valid health card. For more information call toll-free 1–800–268–6021 or visit www.health.gov.on.ca/english/public/pub/adp/diabetic.html.
The Ontario Monitoring for Health Program provides 75% of the cost of blood glucose test strips and 75% of the cost of a blood glucose meter (once every 5 years). To be eligible participants must need to use insulin to manage their diabetes, be an Ontario resident with a valid health card and have no other insurance coverage. For more information contact 1–800–361–0796 or visit www.diabetes.ca/get-involved/programs-entry/ontario-monitoring-for-health-program/.
The Ontario Area office of the Canadian Diabetes Association also notes that some drug providers have short-term emergency assistance programs to help low income patients cover their drug costs.
For instance, Lily Canada Cares Insulin and Glucagon program provides an up to three month supply of Eli Lilly insulin per claim. They say to ask your doctor to see if the company offers a compassionate care program.
Heidi Fraser of the local Canadian Diabetes Association (CDA) also said the CDA offers in-house lunch and learns for staff. Special thanks to Heidi for helping with the content of this article. To sign up for a lunch and learn contact Heidi at [email protected] or 519–742–1481 x. 225.