Update 05/07/2022: Type 1 diabetics are now able to apply via the NDSS for their subsidised Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) devices. If you are a current user of a CGM and have proof of purchase of a CGM between 1 January 2022 and 1 June 2022 you can apply online. Otherwise you must make an appointment with your diabetes health care professional. Find out more and apply on the NDSS website.
From the 1st July 2022 all type 1 diabetics in Australia will be offered heavily subsidised Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) devices. Currently they are only subsidised for around 59,000 Australians who are pregnant, under 21 years of age or concession cardholders. Under the new announcement today by both of Australia’s major political parties all type 1 diabetics will now be eligible for the subsidy. CGMs cost an average of $400 per month, which is a great cost barrier for most. However, under the new announcement, the costs will be capped at $32.50 per month- the same cost as finger pricking strips.
CGM technology is game changing for people living with type 1 diabetes. The device provides close to real time readings of blood sugar levels without the need to prick your finger. This allows better management of blood sugar levels, greatly reducing the risk of complications and further health concerns.
Subsidy get bi-partisan support
The announcement was first made by Australian Prime minister Scott Morrison who said that type 1 diabetes was “an insidious condition that cannot be prevented and costs Australians thousands of dollars each year”. The opposition shadow health spokesperson from the Labor party, Mark Butler, said that Labor will match the government’s announcement if they win the upcoming election.
Life-changing devices
Diabetes Australia Group CEO Justine Cain said that CGMs are life-saving and life-changing for people living with type 1 diabetes.
“Living with type 1 diabetes is a 24-hours-a-day, 365-days-a-year job and this technology helps make that job a lot easier. It reduces the daily burden of frequent finger prick checks and means people have to spend less of their time just managing diabetes. This can translate to improved mental and emotional health and a better quality-of-life.”
Cain went on to say that CGMs significantly lowers a person’s risk of both short-term complications like hypoglycaemia (low blood glucose levels) and long-term complications including blindness, heart and kidney disease and limb amputation. Today’s announcement makes Australia one of the only countries to offer subsidised CGMs to all people living with type 1 diabetes.
I am categorised as diabetes other as a result pancreatitis. I’ve had 70% of my pancreas removed.
I am insulin dependent and have been monitoring my glucose by finger pricking for more than the last 10 years.
My sugar levels go up and down regularly which is a concern to me. Recently I purchased some freestyle libre cgm’s They have been an enormous benefit as I am able to see the daily pattern of my sugar levels.
The cgm’s cost me $92 per fortnight which is quite significant.
I would like to be considered for support in helping me to continue a reasonable level of control and ongoing good health.
Regards
John Gibcus