Free access to diabetes technology would help thousands of Australians living with type 1 diabetes improve their diabetes management and reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications, according to a consensus statement published by the peak bodies representing Australia’s diabetes healthcare professionals.

The Working Group, which included representatives of the Australian Diabetes Society (representing endocrinologists), the Australian Diabetes Educators Association, the Australasian Diabetes in Pregnancy Society and the Australasian Paediatric Endocrine Group, is calling for all people with type 1 diabetes to have equal access to diabetes devices regardless of age, concessional status or level of private health insurance cover.

Continuous glucose monitoring technology is fully subsidised for people with type 1 diabetes under the age of 21, but after that, a concession card is required to receive subsidised access. There is limited funding available for insulin pumps or they can be accessed through tier private health insurance funds.

Associate Professor Sof Andrikopoulos, CEO of the Australian Diabetes Society, says diabetes technologies can cost thousands of dollars for people to access the most up-to-date devices, which can significantly reduce their risk of diabetes-related complications.

“The data suggests that if you are using technology, you can reduce your glucose levels significantly and that reduction in glucose levels means the risk of diabetes related complications may be reduced, as well as improve your quality of life,” said Associate Professor Andrikopoulos.

Professor Greg Johnson from Diabetes Australia says access to life changing technology is so important.

“We continue to work with the Government towards our goal that every person with type 1 diabetes, or other diabetes, who needs access to these technologies can access them. It’s a continually changing world with new devices, upgrades and connectivity all developing rapidly,” said Professor Johnson.

You can read the full research paper, Utilisation, access and recommendations regarding technologies for people living with type 1 diabetes: consensus statement of the ADS/ADEA/APEG/ADIPS Working Group.