Insulin Pump Coverage in New Brunswick

The New Brunswick Insulin Pump Program (NBIPP) supports New Brunswickers living with Type 1 diabetes (and in some cases Type 2 on intensive insulin therapy) to access pump devices and related supplies, including glucose sensors.

By making these technologies more affordable, the program helps reduce barriers to advanced diabetes care and supports better long-term outcomes.

To learn more about which insulin pumps are available across Canada, check out Our guide to insulin pumps in Canada.

Insulin Pumps and Basic Supplies

• NBIPP provides financial assistance toward approved insulin pumps and basic operating supplies.
  
• Only the uninsured portion of pumps, supplies, and sensors are eligible for coverage, meaning insurance coverage is factored in, and NBIPP pays after other payors.
  
• Previously, only people age 25 or under could apply; as of August 15, 2023, the age cap has been removed, so people older than 25 may now apply.
  

Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM / Sensor Coverage)

• NBIPP has expanded to also cover glucose monitoring sensors for eligible individuals who require intensive insulin therapy (pump or 3+ injections) and who meet program criteria.
  
• Sensors such as FreeStyle Libre 2 are covered under NBIPP for eligible applicants.

Costs and Contributions

• Clients/families are required to make contributions toward costs based on household income, household size, and existing insurance coverage.
  
• Applicants with 100% private insurance coverage are not eligible for NBIPP funding because the program only covers the uninsured portion.

Items not covered include insulin, blood glucose test strips, and batteries.

Eligibility under NBIPP involves both medical and administrative criteria. To qualify, you must:

• Be a New Brunswick resident with a valid NB Medicare number.
  
• Have a diagnosis of Type 1 diabetes, or in some cases Type 2 diabetes with intensive insulin therapy.
  
• Be regularly followed by a diabetes care team, with care plan reviews at least twice per year.
• Meet medical eligibility criteria for pumps & supplies:
  
  • If starting pump therapy, not more than 2 DKA episodes in the past 6 months.
  •  If already using pump, no more than 1 DKA in the past year.
  • Must self-monitor blood glucose at least 4 times/day and record results. 
  • Attend pump orientation, manage carbohydrate counting, sick day management, etc.
    
• Agree to submit financial documentation (e.g. Canada Revenue Agency Notice of Assessments) so the program can assess your household contribution.

NBIPP requires use of approved vendors and device lists to qualify for coverage.Clients must purchase devices from the selected vendor after program confirmation.

 👉 For approved device and vendor details: see NBIPP’s “Approved Vendors” information on the program’s site. 

When a client is enrolled, the vendor is notified and arranges shipment directly to the client. 

If you already own a pump not covered under NBIPP, you may need to reapply and meet all eligibility criteria; prior devices might not be eligible.

Here’s the general path to applying and maintaining NBIPP coverage:

1. Renewal & Reassessment: The program requires submissions of updated financial and medical info when renewing or renewing sensor eligibility.
   
2. Medical Confirmation: Your endocrinologist, pediatrician, or diabetes care provider completes the Confirmation of Medical Eligibility form for pumps/supplies (and for sensors, if applicable).
   
3. Client Application: Submit the online NBIPP client application, which collects information on income, insurance, and required documents such as CRA assessments.
   
4. Program Review & Decision: NBIPP reviews the medical and financial eligibility. Applicants will be notified (often by letter) whether coverage is approved.‍
5. Vendor Notification & Delivery: Upon approval, selected vendor is informed and arranges shipment of pump, supplies, or sensors to the client.
6. ‍Ongoing Use & Monitoring: You continue follow-ups with your diabetes care team, monitor glucose, and comply with program requirements for renewal or continuation.

👉 Forms and details: NBIPP’s Confirmation of Medical Eligibility for Sensor form (fill-able) Government of New Brunswick
👉 General NBIPP info and application portal: NBIPP official site nbipp-ppinb.gnb.ca

NBIPP helps reduce the financial burden of devices, supplies, and sensors, but many people still face hurdles in everyday diabetes management. That is where additional support can make a real difference.

• Clinician access when you need it: The Endor Health app allows ongoing communication with your care team, so questions about therapy or adjustments do not have to wait for the next appointment.
  
• Reliable supply delivery: The Endor Health app makes it easy and free to get home delivery of insulin, prescription items and pump supplies, reducing the risk of missed refills or last-minute pharmacy visits.