The ‘Mittayi’ project initiated by the government to improve treatment for children with Type-1 diabetes is facing challenges due to an inadequate budget allocation. Despite the registration of hundreds of children under the project, only Rs 3.8 crore has been earmarked for it in the budget.
Budget Shortfall Worries Parents
Parents of these children are expressing concern that the allocated budget will not suffice to provide the required services beyond the current provisions. Approximately 2,000 children have enrolled in the project through the Social Security Mission, with 1,250 of them currently receiving treatment. While a few children have already received insulin pumps, many are still awaiting essential equipment to enhance their treatment.
Type-1 Diabetes and Treatment Needs
Type-1 diabetes is a condition in which the pancreas produces minimal or no insulin. Parents are advocating for access to critical equipment such as insulin pumps, which enable insulin delivery without the need for frequent needle injections. They are also seeking Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) devices to monitor their children’s sugar levels more effectively.
Currently, children with Type-1 diabetes must endure frequent pricks, averaging 10-15 times a day, to monitor their sugar levels and administer insulin.
Cost of Equipment and Budget Challenges
Insulin pumps, a vital component of effective treatment, come at a high cost of approximately Rs 6-10 lakhs, while the sensors needed for CGM devices are around Rs 10,000 per month.
TR Vijesh, president of the Type-1 Diabetic Welfare Society, revealed that approximately Rs 1.2 lakh is spent annually on sensors alone for each child. The budget allocation is anticipated to cover only basic supplies like insulin, strips, glucometers, and needles for registered and approved children, leaving a shortfall for essential equipment.
Challenges Faced by Families
The inadequacy of the budget allocation for the ‘Mittayi’ project is causing distress among parents, who are eager to provide their children with better treatment options. The need for additional funding to support these children’s healthcare requirements remains a pressing concern.
