Nova Scotia to spend $5.3 million annually on insulin pumps for youth

HALIFAX – About 1,000 children and youths in Nova Scotia will be eligible for funding to help cover the cost of insulin pumps and supplies for children under the age of 19.

Premier Darrell Dexter says the program will cost $5.3 million a year.

He says the program will also cover related supplies for young adults from 19 to 25 with Type 1 diabetes who use insulin pumps and are no longer covered by their parents’ insurance.

The program will be based on need and children with insurance will still have to apply for coverage with their insurance providers before approaching the government for help.

Dexter says the province expects to begin taking applications by July 31.

The measure was part of last week’s budget.