The Alberta government is expanding access to continuous glucose monitors for adults with diabetes who are enrolled in government-sponsored health benefit plans.
This decision builds on a 2022 initiative that provided coverage for children under 18 and is expected to benefit approximately 23,500 adults in the province.
Continuous glucose monitors measure blood sugar levels in real-time, reducing the need for frequent finger-prick blood tests. This expansion aims to alleviate the stress of diabetes management for eligible individuals.
"Managing one’s diabetes can be extremely stressful. Expanding access to these monitors for more Albertans will make their lives easier and relieve the burden on people living with diabetes," said Adriana LaGrange, Minister of Health.
The decision aligns with a recommendation from Alberta’s Diabetes Working Group, which advises on improving diabetes care pathways.
"We are delighted that the Government of Alberta has expanded access to continuous glucose monitors in response to one of our key recommendations," said co-chairs Dr. Julie McKeen and Dr. Peter Sargious.
According to Diabetes Canada, the use of continuous glucose monitors has significant benefits for those managing diabetes. “This will improve the quality of life for so many Albertans,” said Laura Syron, the organization’s president and CEO.
Albertans receiving funding for continuous glucose monitors will have adjusted blood glucose test strip limits, as monitors reduce the need for frequent testing. Those not receiving coverage will maintain their current limits.
The Canada-Alberta agreement will provide the first two years of funding for expanded coverage to improve health care. Approximately 1.3 million Albertans live with diabetes or pre-diabetes, and that number is expected to rise to 1.7 million by 2034.
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