This past spring, the province committed to providing public coverage for advanced glucose monitors, including continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and flash glucose monitoring (Flash GM) for people with T1D up to age 25. The commitment also included expanded coverage under the Manitoba Pediatric Insulin Pump Program by changing the eligible age limit from under 18 to under 25.
Manitoba is now rolling out their commitment and implementation of the program. Those 25 and under can access coverage for advanced glucose monitors effective September 28, 2021, and in November, 2021 for insulin pumps.
The self-management of diabetes can be made easier through technologies such as insulin pumps, CGMs and Flash GMs which improve overall blood glucose (HbA1C) and time in target range (TIR), through more accurate and timely readings – keeping more people out of hospital and reducing longer-term diabetes related complications. In addition, a recent JDRF-funded research study demonstrated that using a CGM reduces neonatal health complications and is a viable option for pregnant individuals with diabetes and their babies.
“JDRF Canada welcomes the expansion of access to insulin pumps and continuous and flash glucose monitoring devices for those living with type 1 diabetes in Manitoba. As these devices are critical in preventing life-threatening complications and improving health outcomes in people with T1D, we’re very pleased that the Manitoban government has stepped up and fulfilled their budget commitment. These devices will help Manitobans with type 1 diabetes to lead healthier, safer and easier lives until a cure is found,” says Dave Prowten, President and CEO, JDRF Canada.
“In the absence of government support, people living with diabetes pay out of pocket to manage the rising, additional costs associated with their disease management. This could be upwards of $15,000 per year for one individual and will only increase the divide between those who can and those who cannot afford these technologies,” adds Prowten.
In the past three years, there has been significant commitments from seven provincial and territorial governments to improve diabetes device access as they have realized the cost-benefit and quality of life outcomes these devices undeniably provide.
JDRF will continue to advocate to improve access to advanced glucose monitoring devices and insulin pumps for all Canadians living with T1D as part of our Access for All campaign.
To learn more about JDRF’s #AccessForAll campaign check out jdrf.ca/accessforall.
For more information on the Manitoba Pharmacare Program, visit: www.gov.mb.ca/health/pharmacare.
