Liberal Senator Guy Barnett has welcomed a decision by Federal Health Minister the Hon Nicola Roxon MP to increase the accessibility of insulin pumps for children with Type 1 diabetes.
The Type 1 Diabetes Insulin Pump Program has been extended so that children under 18 may now receive a means tested subsidy of up to 80% of the cost of the insulin pump.
"This is great news for families with children who have Type 1 Diabetes, and has been welcomed by the Parliamentary Diabetes Support Group (PDSG)," Senator Barnett said.
"I have been lobbying with my colleagues and the PDSG for increased financial support for people with Type 1 Diabetes and their families, especially those on low incomes.
"This additional support is a welcome development, even though it should have occurred sooner.
“This measure will ensure that a greater number of children will have access to insulin pumps and as a result have substantially better health outcomes.
"But there is still more to be done to support those with Type 1 Diabetes and their families," Senator Barnett said.
Insulin pumps can make a dramatic contribution to the quality of life and health outcomes of people with Type 1 Diabetes but have been inaccessible for many families. Insulin pumps can cost up to $8,000 and have ongoing associated costs which are a significant burden for many. The maximum subsidy of $6,400 will provide financial relief to families who face the daily challenge of managing the multitude of problems that Type 1 Diabetes poses.
The Parliamentary Diabetes Support Group is a bipartisan group within the Federal Parliament set up to advocate for the interests of those living with Diabetes. Senator Guy Barnett is a co-founder and Executive Member of the Group. Other Executive Members include the Hon Judi Moylan MP (Chair), Hon Dick Adams MP, Dr Mal Washer MP and Mr Mark Dreyfus MP QC.
Senator Barnett is the only member of the Federal Parliament with Type 1 Diabetes.