News release

All on Same Page for People with Diabetes, Op-ed

Health and Wellness

NOTE: The following is an op-ed piece from Health and Wellness Minister Leo Glavine.


Recently, the Canadian Diabetes Association asked me to sign the Diabetes Charter for Canada. The aim is to make our country a place where people with diabetes live to their full potential.

The charter sets out our shared responsibility, agreement and commitment to diabetes prevention, self-management, support and care. It reflects common principles and practices and includes rights and responsibilities that apply to managing any chronic disease. Things such as timely diagnosis, emotional and mental health support, supportive workplaces, accessible care, education and medications.

Most of us know someone who is living with diabetes. The charter puts us all on the same page. We can all look at it and ask, "How do I fit in? What can I do?"

In government, it's our job to help improve the health of all citizens and to provide care when we need it. The charter lays out our responsibilities.

Nova Scotia is recognized as a national leader for its provincially funded diabetes program, the Diabetes Care Program of Nova Scotia. The program encourages high-quality, accessible care by setting standards and guidelines, and by monitoring trends and practices across the province.

Recently, the program helped launch the Nova Scotia Insulin Pump Program. Families of children with type 1 diabetes can apply for financial assistance for pumps and supplies, and young adults can apply for help for supplies.

The government also recently announced a new Chronic Disease Innovation Fund, to encourage leading-edge ideas and approaches.

We all need to be on the same page about helping each other. Like the hundreds of people who helped create the Diabetes Charter for Canada.

The charter has language people can relate to, helps them take responsibility for their own care, and, when needed, they can stand up for their health care rights.

I make choices every day about how I live, work, and learn to be healthier. One of those choices was signing the Diabetes Charter for Canada.

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