Financial Support for Type 1 Diabetes Management

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Managing Type 1 Diabetes can involve ongoing costs for supplies, medications, and healthcare appointments. Fortunately, several financial support schemes are available for Victorians.

National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS)

The NDSS is an Australian Government initiative administered by Diabetes Australia. It provides access to subsidised diabetes products, information, and support services.

What it offers:

• Subsidised insulin pump consumables
• Subsidised blood glucose testing strips (eligibility criteria apply)
• Subsidised urine ketone testing strips
• Free insulin syringes and pen needles
• Information and support programs

How to access:

• You must be registered with the NDSS. Your doctor or a diabetes educator can help you with registration.
• Visit the NDSS website for more information.

Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS)

The PBS subsidises the cost of many essential medicines, including various types of insulin and other diabetes-related medications.

• Your doctor will prescribe PBS-listed medicines.
• Concession card holders (e.g., Pensioner Concession Card, Health Care Card) pay a lower co-payment.
• More information: PBS website

State and Territory Concessions and Benefits

The Victorian Government offers a range of concessions for eligible residents, which can help reduce living costs.

• Victorian Patient Transport Assistance Scheme (VPTAS): Provides financial assistance to Victorians who have to travel long distances for specialist medical care. This could be relevant for attending appointments with endocrinologists or other specialists not available locally.
  • Eligibility criteria apply, including distance travelled.
  • More information: VPTAS on health.vic.gov.au
• Utility Relief Grant Scheme (URGS): Helps with paying overdue electricity, gas, or water bills if you’re experiencing unexpected hardship.
  • More information: URGS on services.dffh.vic.gov.au
• Multi-Purpose Taxi Program (MPTP): For people with severe disabilities that limit their ability to use public transport, this program subsidises taxi fares.
  • More information: MPTP on Commercial Passenger Vehicles Victoria

Centrelink Payments

If you are an older Australian, you might be eligible for Age Pension or other support payments from Centrelink, which can help with overall living costs.

• Ensure your concession cards are up to date.
• Contact Services Australia (Centrelink) for details.

Private Health Insurance

While not a government scheme, review your private health insurance policy to understand what it covers regarding diabetes management, such as:

• Podiatry
• Dietitian services
• Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGM) or Flash Glucose Monitors (some insurers offer rebates)

Talking to Your Healthcare Team

Your GP, endocrinologist, or diabetes educator can:

• Advise on accessing NDSS and other programs.
• Help complete necessary forms.
• Refer you to social workers or financial counsellors if you need more specialised help.

Key Takeaway: Don’t hesitate to ask for help. There are systems in place to make managing Type 1 Diabetes more affordable.

References:

1. National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS). (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.ndss.com.au/
2. Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.pbs.gov.au/
3. Victorian State Government. (n.d.). Concessions and benefits. Retrieved from https://www.vic.gov.au/concessions-and-benefits
4. Victorian Department of Health. (n.d.). Victorian Patient Transport Assistance Scheme (VPTAS). Retrieved from https://www.health.vic.gov.au/patient-care/victorian-patient-transport-assistance-scheme-vptas
5. Services Australia. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/