Money matters for people with diabetes July 2017

It must seem like this to those with diabetes at each clinic appointment

The numbers 313,959 Victorians have diabetes 273,590 have type 2 diabetes 28,851 have type 1 diabetes 9,560 have gestational diabetes 1,958 have other endocrine conditions All are registered with the National Diabetes Services Scheme as at 31 March 2017

The numbers Older Victorian people with diabetes: 60 – 90 years old with type 2 diabetes=194,105 60-90 years old with type 1 diabetes=9,582 Source: NDSS March 31 , 2017

People with diabetes & family members say internationally 63% negative impact on physical health 63% worried about hypo’s 50% have a good quality of live 45% negative impact on finances 45% negative impact on emotional well- being 45% negative impact on work /studies

Diabetes is a costly health condition Out of pocket expenses range from $5,000 to $12,000 for an individual depending on the type of diabetes ,duration of the health condition, age and post code. Source: Australian Diabetes Study (2015)

Older people with diabetes tell us about: Not expecting more co payments-consultations for all health and allied health services Not being able to afford all medicines for diabetes and any other health conditions Partner handled the money–no recent budget experience Limited knowledge of financial counselling – let things slip Family member controlling finances and limiting access for person with diabetes-rare but distressing Family members stealing from older person-bank accounts, use of car, selling furniture and precious items Contracts entering nursing homes and support accommodation taking all funds

Those in financial distress : Homeless International students Mental health conditions Multiple health conditions Those starting out in the first job, away from home Older people whose relatives are stealing Any person with diabetes

Health care professionals need to mention money: When talking about : Consultation costs,fees,co-payments Treatment options-many require private health insurance for insulin and blood glucose monitoring devices Medicines Getting to medical and other health appointments- parking & transport Life style changes

Some resources remain: Australian Securities & Investment Commission booklets Money help-financial counsellors & information sheets Work WelfareWills Concession guides DHS Legal and social security rights Centres No interest loans Community service and church welfare organisations Centrelink social workers- limited with more online services

Support: where else can you go? Diabetes Victoria peer support groups OzDOC https://twitter.com/OzDiabetesOC Weekly tweet chats Online forums e.g. Type 1 Diabetes Network, Tudiabetes, and more Isolation is the enemy Peers can help you: you’re not the only one help you problem solve a united voice for change