Free Insulin Injections for U-18 Type 1 Diabetics Delayed in Karnataka
The Karnataka health and family welfare department's scheme to provide free insulin injections to children under 18 with Type 1 diabetes has been delayed. The department had estimated that the scheme would benefit approximately 7,000 children across the state.
Insulin injections currently cost between Rs 2,000 and Rs 4,000 per month per child, depending on the child's age and dosage requirements. The delay has left many families struggling to afford the essential medication.
Impact on Families and Children
Parents of children with Type 1 diabetes have expressed concern over the delay, as the financial burden of purchasing insulin continues to mount. According to a health department official, the scheme was designed to alleviate this burden and ensure uninterrupted access to insulin for young patients.
The department has not provided a revised timeline for the launch of the scheme. Officials cited administrative and logistical challenges as reasons for the delay.
Government Response and Next Steps
Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao stated that the government is committed to implementing the scheme and is working to resolve the hurdles. “We understand the urgency and are taking all necessary steps to roll out the program as soon as possible,” he said.
The scheme is part of the state's broader initiative to improve healthcare for children with chronic conditions. Once implemented, it will be available at government hospitals and primary health centers across Karnataka.
