Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on The New Brunswick Pediatric Insulin Pump Program

The provincial government is providing a publicly funded insulin pump program for children with diabetes. Their families are responsible for paying for part of the costs of equipment and supplies, based on family size and income.

1. Who is eligible?
2. What is included?
3. How do I apply?
4. How is the Family Contribution determined?
5. How is family size determined?
6. How much will be covered?
7. How does my private health insurance work with this?
8. Is there a renewal process?
9. What are the medical eligibility criteria?
10. What is not covered by this program?
11. What help is available if I cannot afford the insulin and blood glucose test strips?
12. Where can I learn more about the Pediatric Insulin Pump Program?

1. Who is eligible?

Children must have a valid New Brunswick Medicare number; be younger than 19 years old; and meet the medical eligibility criteria.

2. What is included?

There is an approved vendors list. All devices and their related basic operating supplies on this list are eligible for a subsidy. 

3. How do I apply?

Your child’s pediatrician must complete an Approval Authority Form with you. The medical section of this form is sent to your pediatric clinic, which will forward it to the Pediatric Insulin Pump Program business office. You must also complete an assessment section that will be used to calculate the Family Contribution.

4. How is the Family Contribution determined?

Family Contribution is based on the income and size of the family. Those making an application must provide a copy of their notice of assessment from the Canada Revenue Agency for the most recent taxation year. They may also contact the program’s administrator to ask for an estimate of what this might be; alternatively, they may use a calculator available online.

5. How is family size determined? 

This includes the parent(s); any children living in the household; and all children for whom child support is being paid. Parents are allowed to include children younger than 25 years old who are attending college or university.

6. How much will be covered?

The program may cover up to 100 per cent of the cost of devices and supplies. It is a sliding scale, based on the size and income of the family. 

7. How does my private health insurance work with this?

Please check with your private health insurance carrier.  You may be able to submit your family contribution that was paid.  Each insurer will be able to provide you with details on the coverage and how to apply if available

8. Is there a renewal process? 

All applicants must renew their medical eligibility and Family Contribution annually.

9. What are the medical eligibility criteria?

• The child and the family must already be involved in regular follow-up by their diabetes health care team, be reviewed at least 3 times per year and show a sound knowledge of diabetes self care.
• The child and family must have a sound knowledge of carbohydrate counting.
• The child and family must already be practicing self monitoring of blood glucose a MINIMUM of four times/day (at least before meals and at bedtime), record results, and agree to continue to do as such.
• The child and family must complete an insulin pump educational program, given by a certified insulin pump instructor.
• There is appropriate, ongoing family support.
• The child and family are actively attempting to meet and/or maintain the A1c goal that is identified in their care plan.
• New pump users:  The child has not had more than two (2) episodes of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in the previous six (6) months.
• Currently on a pump:  The child must not have more than one DKA during the past year.

10. What is not covered by this program?

Insulin, blood glucose test strips, batteries and continuous glucose monitoring systems and supplies are not covered. 

11. What help is available if I cannot afford the insulin and blood glucose test strips?

If you are experiencing financial difficulty due to the cost of health-related expenses such as insulin and blood glucose test strips, talk to your pediatric clinic team. They may be able to help you identify where to ask for financial assistance. 

The New Brunswick Prescription Drug Program provides subsidized drug coverage to eligible New Brunswick residents.  This includes clients of the Department of Social Development and others with certain medical conditions.

Individuals with diabetes who do not have insurance and are unable to afford diabetes drugs and supplies have the option to apply for assistance through their local office of the Department of Social Development.  They may be eligible for a health card that provides drug coverage and helps cover the cost of diabetic supplies. Information may be obtained by contacting a regional office of the Department of Social Development at the following toll-free telephone numbers.

12. Where can I learn more about the Pediatric Insulin Pump Program?

Contact the program’s administrator:

• Toll-free, 1-855-655-5525
• Email: [email protected]