Pilot project to help diabetic aboriginals in Manitoba

CBC News

A pilot project announced in Winnipeg on Friday will establish a wait-time guarantee for First Nations diabetes patients on Manitoba reserves, federal Health Minister Tony Clement says.

Clement, who was in Winnipeg for the pilot announcement, says Ottawa will give $3.7 million over an 18-month period to fund the project, which will improve access to treatment for First Nations people who face debilitating infections and possible amputations arising from diabetes.

The goal of the pilot is to reduce leg amputations caused by foot ulcers in diabetics.

The project partners Health Canada with the non-profit health organization St. Elizabeth Health Care and the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs.

"Canada's First Nations people have moved from reliance on the land to increased reliance on processed food. We have, unfortunately seen a rise in the incidence of diabetes," Clement said Friday.

"Diabetes is a kind of disease that can result in multiple complications, and those complications can have devastating consequences."

Assembly of Manitoba Grand Chief Ron Evans said the project will improve accessibility to treatment for First Nations in Manitoba, and should reduce the need for amputations.

The program will establish a guaranteed time frame to treat diabetic foot ulcers and recommend alternative care options.