1. Money matters for people with diabetes
July 2017

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

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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)

7. 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

8. 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

9. 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

10. 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

11. Support: where else can you go?
Diabetes Victoria peer support groups
OzDOC
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