Canadians with diabetes may be eligible for continuous glucose monitoring

Dexcom, a trailblazer in continuous glucose monitoring (CGM), has announced that people suffering from type 1 diabetes, above the age of 2, may now receive provincial coverage for the Dexcom G6 CGM. The company is providing insurance covered CGM systems to select Canadian provinces.

Dexcom manufactures continuous glucose monitoring systems to manage diabetes. CGM is a method that constantly tracks glucose levels by taking glucose measurements at regular intervals, up to 24 hours a day. The system translates the readings into data that provides glucose direction and rate of change. 

British Columbia, the first province to cover the product, announced that residents can acquire CGM through PharmaCare. British Columbians must be registered with Fair Pharmacare, have their doctor confirm they meet the provincial clinical requirements and submit a BC PharmaCare Special Authority request on behalf of the patient.

“Thousands of British Columbians will benefit from coverage of continuous glucose monitors, which will allow patients to stay on top of their glucose levels with an easy, convenient system and will help patients and their healthcare providers make better treatment decisions,” says BC’s Minister of Health, Adrian Dix.

Quebec and Saskatechwan are also providing coverage for their residents.

Residents of Quebec must be living with type 1 diabetes and be above the age of two. Patients have to meet the medical requirements, which can be viewed here. Saskawatchewan requires patients to be under the age of 18. To find out if you are eligible for full coverage, contact your pediatric diabetes specialist to begin an assessment.

The Dexcom G6 CGM system includes a small sensor that is worn just below the skin and is held in place by an adhesive patch. The sensor measures glucose levels in the interstitial fluid and the reusable transmitter wirelessly sends live readings to a receiver. Glucose data can be displayed on an electronic device using the Dexcom G6 App, or on an optional receiver.

Dexcom helps users manage their glucose highs and lows while giving additional information into the impact that meals, exercise and illness may have on the user’s glucose levels. CGM lessens the stress of diabetes management by reducing the guessing that comes with a regular blood glucose meter reading.

For more information check out Dexcom’s website, here.