Alberta’s government is expanding the Insulin Pump Therapy Program to include the Omnipod 5, a cutting-edge device designed to make managing diabetes easier than ever. The Omnipod 5 automatically adjusts insulin in real time using data from a continuous glucose monitor, helping keep blood sugar levels within a healthy range.
More than 1.3 million Albertans are living with diabetes, and many rely on insulin every day to manage their condition. Managing blood sugar can be complex and time-consuming, so improving access to easier, more advanced technology helps reduce that burden and support better health outcomes.
Alberta now covers the Omnipod 5 through the Insulin Pump Therapy Program (Credit: Insulet)
“I’ve heard from so many Albertans who have been waiting for this insulin pump. Living with diabetes is a daily challenge, and this device can make managing insulin simpler, easier, and much less stressful.”
Eligible Albertans can receive an insulin pump at no cost every five years through the Insulin Pump Therapy Program. Access to the Omnipod 5 will follow this existing replacement cycle, meaning most current users will transition when their device warranty expires, rather than all at once.
Albertans already using an Omnipod system may also be eligible to upgrade earlier through the manufacturer’s Omnipod Innovation Pathway Program.
“This is hugely exciting news. It builds on Alberta’s previous commitment to supporting access to continuous glucose monitoring for children and adults with type 1 diabetes that enables access to automated insulin delivery (AID). AID has delivered unprecedented improvements in blood glucose levels and quality of life, and adding coverage for OP5 provides young children and other vulnerable populations with an option that may better suit their needs. This investment will improve health and reduce the burden of diabetes for individuals, their families and our communities.”
“I’m thrilled to see expanded access to insulin pump options for Albertans living with diabetes! By adding another device to the Insulin Pump Therapy Program, eligible Albertans now have greater choice to select the technology that best fits their individual needs and lifestyles. This is an exciting step forward in advancing more personalized, effective diabetes care in Alberta.”
“Expanding choice and access to devices will be life-saving for many Albertans living with diabetes. Precision insulin delivery systems enhance blood glucose control and lower the risk of complications – enhancing quality of life and reducing the burden on health care systems.”
Alberta continues to provide some of the most comprehensive publicly funded health benefits in Canada, and this investment gives Albertans with diabetes access to innovative, life-changing technology that makes daily care easier and improves health outcomes.
Quick facts
- Alberta’s publicly funded drug plans now cover 16 different diabetes drugs and nine insulin products.
- Alberta’s government covers continuous glucose monitors for eligible Albertans enrolled in a government-sponsored health benefit plan.
- An estimated 1.3 million Albertans are living with diabetes or prediabetes. This number is projected to rise to approximately 1.68 million by 2034.
- Budget 2026 invests more than $2.8 billion to ensure eligible Albertans can access essential supports, including prescription drugs, diabetes supplies, dental and optical services.