The Federal Government has committed to subsidizing continuous glucose monitors (CGM) for all Type 1 diabetics from the 1st July 2022. Previously these were paid for for all Type 1 diabetics <21 years of age, pregnant or planning pregnancy or with a healthcare or pension card. All other Type 1 diabetics had to pay full price for these.

This is a welcome initiative as these devices have been life-changing in helping diabetics manage their diabetes; in particular reducing hypoglycaemic episodes whilst also allowing them to maintain good blood sugar control. We look forward to a momentum shift in how well diabetes is managed as a result of this.

 

There are no details yet as to how the system will work; we are still waiting for these. It is unclear what will be required (in terms of documentation) for this. Once this is clear we will be able to help our patients access and use CGM. The uptake will also result in Endocrinologists, Diabetic Educators and other professionals who manage diabetes to be inundated with information from each patient, and it will take some time for us to work out how best to use this information to serve our patients needs with our already restricted time. Nonetheless we are all looking forward to July 1st and the progress it brings!