Body Mass Index
31 % 35 %
CANrisk Scores — risk of developing Type 2 diabetes
25 %
34 %
21 %
54 %
Normal Overweight Obese
Low Risk Moderate Risk High Risk
Moving Forward ARTA is working on a number of initiatives that emanated from the health and wellness survey . First , we want to conduct the survey again in the coming year , aiming to have even more respondents . One concern with this survey is that only the healthiest of ARTA members took the time to respond , and we want a more complete assessment of the health of the full ARTA membership .
In the meantime , you can expect some information and programming around weight management and diabetes screening . To calculate your own BMI and find out if you are at risk for diabetes , see the information in the box . We will highlight some aspects of diabetes care , like foot care and blood sugar testing for people with diabetes .
It is suggested that the amount and cost of diabetic supplies funded through the ARTA Retiree Benefits Plan be reviewed . Recently , several provinces , including Alberta ’ s public health care plan , have changed their policies for reimbursement of diabetic supplies , including blood glucose test strips . In Alberta , the current Alberta Coverage for Seniors Plan covers diabetic supplies up to $ 600 per year , but only for those treated with insulin . For those not treated with insulin , the full cost of diabetic supplies is typically submitted to private insurance plans , like the ARTA Retiree Benefits Plan .
According to research and recommendations , not all people with diabetes need to test their blood sugar levels daily . Most people with Type 2 diabetes , and particularly those who are not treated with insulin , can test their blood sugar less often and therefore do not need to purchase and claim as many diabetic supplies . Blood glucose test strips were the top claim to the ARTA Retiree Benefits Plan , with 4,300 claims and a cost of over $ 260,000 in 2015 . Reviewing ARTA ’ s current coverage of diabetic supplies , when coupled with patient education on blood sugar testing , may provide an opportunity for savings , to be reinvested in other important health benefits areas . Examining the criteria will help optimize coverage for those who need it and make sure it lasts over time .
If you have questions about your own blood glucose testing practices , talk to your health care professional .
For more information To find out if you are at risk for diabetes , you can complete the CANrisk questionnaire yourself at take2minutes . ca /.
Please contact ACHORD directly : 780-248-1010 or email achord @ ualberta . ca if you have questions about the survey or its results .
Body Mass Index ( BMI ) uses a person ’ s height and weight to measure body fat . Too much body fat may lead to increased health risks .
Calculate your own BMI : BMI = weight in kg / height in metres 2 or use the BMI calculator at the following Canadian Diabetes Association website goo . gl / ungGOs
Interpreting the BMI : Normal Weight = 18.5 – 24.9 Overweight = 25.0 – 34.9 Obese = over 35.0 news & views WINTER 2016 | 37