New Zealand First has called on Pharmac to extend the consultation period over its plan to fund a sole Korean supplier of diabetes test strips from 1st June 2012.

Health spokesperson Barbara Stewart says there is widespread concern at Pharmac's proposal amongst patients, doctors and other health workers associated with diabetes.

"The strips are a life saving device and no decisions on supply should be made without extensive and thorough consultation with the patients, their doctors and the health workers who help diabetics.

"Pharmac started funding test meters in 2005 and by 2009 was funding four meters which gave diabetics a choice.  However last August it started moving to a sole supply position to save $10 million per year.

"Consultation was announced on 23 February closing on 14 March. This is not enough time to allow in-depth examination of an issue of such importance to diabetics.

"Thousands of diabetics can lead normal lives and hold down jobs because they can monitor blood sugar levels.