Friday, March 4, 2022 Toronto, ON – Today, the Ontario government made an exciting announcement that will provide better access for Ontarians with type 1 diabetes (T1D) to continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems. These devices will be covered under Ontario’s Assistive Devices Program (ADP), which also provides coverage for insulin pumps. ADP is available to Ontario residents who have a valid Ontario health card and can demonstrate that they have a condition requiring the equipment or supplies for six months or longer.
“JDRF Canada is thrilled that Ontario will provide coverage for CGM devices to those living with type 1 diabetes. These technologies are critical in preventing life-threatening complications and improving health outcomes, while also providing rich data to clinicians, as we continue to rely on virtual care. Those living with type 1 diabetes in Ontario can now lead healthier, safer, and easier lives until a cure is found,” says Dave Prowten, President and CEO, JDRF Canada.
T1D self-management is made easier through technologies such as CGMs which provide real-time readings that help to improve overall blood glucose (HbA1C) and time in target range (TIR) keeping more people out of hospital, and reducing longer-term complications. Better self-management and glucose control also helps to relieve some of the anxiety that surrounds the disease. It allows people with T1D to better plan exercise, meals, and rest. Universal coverage of CGM would increase the number of people living free of complications by an estimated 7,400 and decrease mortality by an estimated 11,500.
“In the absence of government support, people living with diabetes will continue to pay out of pocket to manage the rising, additional costs. 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 six provincial and territorial governments to improve access to diabetes technology. In Ontario, public coverage is available for both CGM and Flash GM. We applaud the government for recognizing the clear evidence of both the cost-benefit and quality of life outcomes these devices undeniably provide.
JDRF welcomes today’s announcement from the Ontario government after ongoing advocacy efforts through the Access for All campaign to educate and inform decisionmakers of the benefits of funding these technologies. JDRF believes that patient choice is paramount to better T1D management. The organization will continue to advocate until there is universal access to advanced glucose monitoring devices and insulin pumps for all Canadians living with T1D.
To learn more about JDRF’s #AccessForAll campaign visit: www.breakthrought1d.ca/accessforall
For more information on the Assistive Devices Program, visit: https://www.ontario.ca/page/assistive-devices-program
