TORONTO, The Ontario government is introducing changes to its Assistive Devices Program (ADP) that will allow nearly 4,000 residents living with Type 1 diabetes to qualify for insulin pump funding up to a year sooner, while reducing administrative requirements for patients and health-care providers.
Announced ahead of World Diabetes Day on November 14, the reforms will take effect on February 1, 2027, removing a longstanding eligibility requirement and simplifying the process for renewing financial assistance.
The measures are intended to improve access to diabetes management technology, reduce treatment-related barriers and make publicly funded health-care supports more accessible across the province.
Ontario Removes One-Year Insulin Injection Requirement
Under the existing ADP rules, applicants must use insulin injections for at least one year before becoming eligible for government-funded insulin pump therapy.
Beginning February 2027, that requirement will be eliminated, allowing patients who meet the program’s other eligibility criteria to access funding without completing the mandatory waiting period.
The government estimates that nearly 4,000 Ontarians who apply for insulin pump assistance annually could benefit from the updated rules.
“Our government is breaking down barriers for people living with diabetes, helping them access the care and supports they need to live healthier lives,” said Sylvia Jones, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health. “These changes will increase access to treatment and reduce administrative burden, while making it easier for Ontarians to manage their diabetes.”
The change is particularly significant for patients whose health-care providers determine that insulin pump therapy is an appropriate treatment option earlier in their diabetes management.
Funding Renewals Reduced to Once Every Two Years
Ontario is also changing the renewal process for insulin pump supply grants.
Currently, recipients must complete annual renewal requirements to continue receiving financial support. Under the revised system, renewals will be required once every two years.
The adjustment is expected to reduce paperwork for patients and clinicians while maintaining access to ongoing funding.
For individuals managing a lifelong condition, fewer administrative requirements could help simplify treatment planning and reduce the time spent completing funding applications.
Ontario Provides Full Funding for Approved Insulin Pumps
Insulin pumps are portable medical devices that deliver insulin continuously throughout the day and night, helping patients regulate blood glucose levels.
The technology can provide an alternative to multiple daily insulin injections and support more consistent diabetes management when used appropriately.
Through Ontario’s Assistive Devices Program, eligible residents with Type 1 diabetes receive full funding for approved insulin pumps, along with $2,400 annually for associated supplies.
These supplies are essential for operating the devices and maintaining uninterrupted insulin delivery.
The program helps reduce the financial burden associated with diabetes treatment, particularly for households facing recurring medical equipment expenses.
Nearly $95 Million Provided to Diabetes Patients
Ontario’s existing investment in insulin pump therapy represents a substantial component of its medical equipment assistance programs.
During the 2025–26 fiscal year, the ADP provided approximately $95 million for insulin pumps and related supplies, supporting nearly 24,000 clients.
The broader program also assists eligible Ontarians with the cost of personalized medical equipment and supplies for various health conditions.
The newly announced changes focus on eligibility and administrative procedures rather than increasing the existing annual supply grant.
Diabetes Canada Welcomes Expanded Treatment Access
Diabetes Canada has endorsed the government’s decision, describing the removal of the waiting period as an important improvement for people living with Type 1 diabetes.
“Diabetes Canada applauds the Ontario government for eliminating the one-year waiting period for insulin pump access and reducing unnecessary administrative burdens on people living with Type 1 diabetes. This is a lifelong condition, and people living with Type 1 diabetes should not face unnecessary barriers to accessing essential medical devices or onerous paperwork. These common sense changes respect patients, reduce pressures on health care professionals, and represent a meaningful step forward in improving diabetes care in Ontario.”
— Laura Syron, President and CEO, Diabetes Canada
The organization’s support highlights the importance of ensuring that patients can access appropriate medical technology without unnecessary delays.
Changes Support Ontario’s Broader Health-Care Strategy
The reforms form part of Ontario’s Your Health: A Plan for Connected and Convenient Care, which aims to improve access to health services and strengthen patient support across the province.
By eliminating the mandatory injection period and extending grant renewal intervals, the government intends to make diabetes treatment funding more responsive to patient needs.
With implementation scheduled for February 1, 2027, the changes are expected to provide earlier access to insulin pump therapy for eligible Ontarians while easing administrative pressures on the health-care system.
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