The maze

Because of the excessive cost of our prescription drugs we qualify for for a Program that is supposed to cover most of the cost. The Program in this province is the hardest one to qualify for but, once qualified, it appears good.

On day one when I went to get three refills, I discovered one of those wasn't covered. It was something via a patch so I just thought it was the method that was the issue and not the drug itself.

The second time I went, I needed a refill for my SS. That too wasn't covered. And it's not especially expensive. It's only about $10 more than something similar that would be covered. We can get the doctor to change to the other one but it was found less effective when he had it before.

So now I decide to look at the Province's website to see what else is excluded. There's another that my wife has that's excluded. So that's three not covered.

Interestingly all three are covered by neighbouring Provinces. So not only is it harder to qualify in New Brunswick, they still exclude treatment that the other, more enlightened, Provinces don't.

It is possible for exceptions to be made to the exclusions if the doctor can convince them, but knowing how tight the province is I wouldn't have much hope.

During a phone call they also told me my insulin wasn't covered. Not too bothered about that originally as it's only $25. But that makes four of our treatments not covered. Interestingly, their website says it is covered. Arses and elbows?

We still have a considerable saving overall but we still have a considerable bill. Moving to another province might still be the best option a bit further down the line.

I still don't know about syringes and test strips. They are supposed to be covered. But what does 'cover' mean, some arbitrary quantity they decide regardless of medical instruction?

I asked them to tell me exactly how that part works; do I get them at no cost or apply for a refund or do they authorise it as and when? All they told me was they'd send the authority to the Pharmacy. But what will that be based on?

Previously I had to supply a costing for syringes & swabs and test strips & lancets, so they have info as to how much they cost per 100 of each; the only way they are sold. My doctor's letter says I'm supposed to test four times daily but when they sent the document confirming we'd qualified for the scheme, they somehow missed that I was diabetic despite the doc's letter and his confirmation of 3 diabetic drugs. Astounding isn't it?

Anyway, 100 syringes & swabs lasts me a month and two-thirds, while 100 test strips and lancets last me 25 days. So a monthly issue is too often for injecting but not enough for testing.

I should find out what happens this afternoon but I'm not holding my breath.