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JOINT COMMUNICATION
Benefit Coverage for Glucose Transmitters and Sensors
June 2008
Background
In the last round of collective bargaining with the United Nurses of Alberta (UNA), the Multi-Employer/UNA Collective Agreement benefits language in Article 21 was amended to provide coverage for diabetic supplies on a direct bill basis; and to specify that the coverage for diabetic supplies includes coverage for insulin pumps once every five years.
Subsequent to the ratification of the new Collective Agreement, an interpretative issue as to whether the new language regarding diabetic supplies should include coverage for glucose transmitters and related sensors.
The glucose monitor in question is an extension to the insulin pump. Sensors are inserted under the patient’s skin and provide real time (every five minutes) blood sugar levels so that the patient can adjust their food intake and activity levels accordingly. These glucose transmitters are generally used by people who are required to take insulin four times per day or more.
Resolution
In accordance with discussions of the Multi-Employer/UNA Joint Committee, the parties have agreed to resolve this issue as follows:
• Coverage for the glucose transmitters and sensors is to be provided effective June 19, 2008. Coverage will be provided on a reimbursement basis between June 19, 2008 and September 1, 2008. Effective September 1, 2008, this coverage will be available on a direct bill basis.
• A definitive listing of items to be covered as diabetic supplies and medical equipment under the Supplementary Health Care Plan during the term of this Collective Agreement has been agreed upon (a copy of the agreed upon listing is attached as Appendix A.).
• The parties will engage in ongoing discussions regarding benefit issues in order to promote a better mutual understanding of benefit issues and the needs of employees.
• The three individual grievances filed related to the issue will be resolved by payment of the claims for the glucose transmitter(s) and sensors as applicable.
If you have any question regarding the work of the Task Force, please contact your respective representative as follows, or any member of the Task Force.
If you have any questions regarding this information, please contact:
For the Union:
Heather Smith
President
United Nurses of Alberta
1-800-252-9394
For the Employers:
Cory Galway
Senior Negotiator
HBA Services
(403) 281-8510
Coverage for
Diabetic Supplies and Equipment
As at June 19, 2008
Covered Diabetic Supplies:
• syringes;
• pen needles;
• lancets;
• lancing devices;
• blood glucose test strips; and
• urine test strips.
Covered Diabetic Equipment:
• Insulin pumps – (100% coverage every five years) – Requires a physician’s written order;
• Insulin pump supplies (infusion sets and the syringe/reservoir – removable for refilling and typically replaced monthly and tubing);
• Glucose blood testing monitor – maximum $175 every five years– Requires a physician’s written order for coverage; and
• Glucose transmitters and sensors.
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