People using intensive insulin therapy—that is, at least three insulin injections per day, regardless of diabetes type—now have access to coverage for continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices from two different companies.
The Régie de l’assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) has expanded reimbursement criteria for the Dexcom G6MD and G7MD to include people living with type 2 diabetes who take insulin at least three times per day. These devices were already covered for people living with type 1 diabetes.
The other glucose monitoring system already covered by RAMQ is Abbott’s Freestyle Libre 2MD. Their new model, the Libre 3 plusMD, is approved in Canada. It is already covered by several private insurance plans and is expected to be covered by RAMQ soon.
RAMQ classifies these technologies as exceptional drugs. To obtain reimbursement for the Dexcom G6MD, Dexcom G7MD, or Freestyle Libre 2MD (and soon Libre 3 plusMD), the prescriber (physician, NP, or dietitian) must ensure that the individual meets the following criteria:
- CGMs are indicated for self-monitoring of blood glucose in people with diabetes aged 2 years and older.
- At the start of treatment, the individual must meet the following:
- Under 18 years old: diagnosed with type 1 diabetes
- 18 years or older: receiving intensive insulin therapy (insulin pump or ≥3 insulin injections per day)
- And must meet one or more of these criteria:
- HbA1c levels out of target range
- Frequent episodes of hypoglycemia
- Inability to recognize or report symptoms of hypoglycemia
If you think you may benefit from this technology for glucose monitoring, discuss it with your healthcare professional.