Things are a little different here in Ontario. I have a standing prescription at the pharmacy for refills (usually about 10 times) and when I run low I just get another refill. I have no problem in getting whatever prescriptions I may need. Althou gh sometimes I question why I need yet another pill! This morning it was for NovoRapid for a box of 5 cartridges which will last me, maybe 4 months. I don't use a lot, yet. I also use Lantus. The NovoRapid and strips are covered under Trillium Health Plan (Ontario government) as I couldn't afford private health coverage when I retired. The Lantus is not! I mean it is just as necessary as the NovoRapid, but isn't that the way with the suits. At least my endo has given me complimentary samples for the Lantus. Lancets and pen needles are not covered but the Canadian Diabetes Association has a scheme where you can get back up to 70% up to a certain dollar amount to cover them per year. Which dosesn't make a lot of sense either because you need to take the insulin somehow, don't you. I shudder sometimes when I see the problems encountered by the members on this board or what I read i n the Papers (yes we do get them, usually by dogsled, out here in the colonies) HAHA. All the best, Carol