Diabetes Canada applauds the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador for expanding access to continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices to eligible people living with type 1 diabetes.
“Diabetes Canada welcomes the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador expansion of the CGM program," says Laura O’Driscoll, Senior Manager of Policy for Diabetes Canada. “These devices are life-changing for many people with diabetes. This expansion will enable more people living in Newfoundland and Labrador to benefit from a CGM device to enhance their blood glucose management and reduce their risk of short and long-term complications, including severe hypoglycemia.”
In Newfoundland and Labrador, 13% of people live with diagnosed diabetes, a figure that climbs to 18% when cases of undiagnosed type 2 diabetes are included.
Managing diabetes can pose a significant financial burden to people and their families.
In Newfoundland and Labrador, people with type 1 diabetes can pay up to $9,000 out of pocket annually, while those managing type 2 diabetes can pay up to $6,000. These costs can adversely affect the ability of some to manage their diabetes, impacting quality of life and increasing the risk of developing serious complications. The government’s investment in CGMs will reduce out-of-pocket costs for many individuals living with diabetes and their families.
Diabetes Canada looks forward to working with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and urges the province to work toward expanding the program to include people living with type 2 diabetes who still do not have access to this life-saving technology.