For you to qualify for the Diabetic supplies for seniors benefit you must show that you’ve tried all other options, including the Seniors’ Health Program, and still can’t pay for your diabetic supplies.
The Department of Social Development determines whether you qualify on a case-by-case basis. You may be able to get help if you are a resident of New Brunswick who is:
- Newly diagnosed with diabetes
- Taking oral medications
- Insulin-dependent
- and unable to afford diabetic supplies
To find out if you qualify, the department assesses your monthly expenses and income. If your costs are more than your income you may be able to get support.
Notice of Assessment
A statement from Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to each taxpayer, every year, after you have filed a tax return. It tells you the amount of income tax you owe, or the amount of the refund you will get.
You can see a full set of instructions on the Diabetic supplies for seniors website, under “How do I apply?”. Here is a summary:
- To apply, call Social Development at 1-833-733-7835. Tell the agent you need help with diabetic supplies.
- The agent will ask you some questions about your situation to figure out if you may be eligible. They will ask about your income, including the Canada Pensions Plan (CPP) and Old Age Security (OAS). They will also ask about monthly expenses like your rent or mortgage, transportation, food and other bills.
- If the agent thinks you may be eligible for the benefit, you will be given a telephone appointment to complete an assessment. You will need to submit different types of documents:
- Documents which show how much your household income is
- Documents which show how much your monthly expenses
- A completed Request for Blood Glucose Test Supplies (pdf) form from your doctor, nurse practitioner or certified diabetic educator
- A cost estimate from your pharmacy of choice for the required diabetic supplies
- Once you get approved, you can get your diabetic supplies from the pharmacy.