National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS) fully subsidises the most advanced Dexcom Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) technology
Advanced features not available on any other device
Government paves the way for improved access to game-changing technology for eligible Australians living with Type 1 diabetes
Sydney, 8 February 2022 – AMSL Diabetes has today announced that the Dexcom G6 Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) system will be available through the Australian Government’s CGM Subsidy Initiative as part of the National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS), effective from 1st March 2022.
The fully-subsidised listing of the new generation Dexcom G6 means that eligible Australians living with Type 1 diabetes have greater access to the most advanced CGM technology, with features not available on any other device currently on the market. The approval reinforces the government’s firm commitment to providing Australians with access to innovative healthcare technologies.
Those eligible for the Dexcom G6 through the National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS), include:
- People under 21 years with Type 1 diabetes
- People 21 years or older with Type 1 diabetes who have valid concessional status
- People under 21 years with conditions very similar to Type 1 diabetes who require insulin
As wearable sensors, CGM devices replace traditional ‘finger prick’ monitoring by providing dynamic, real-time glucose information that shows where a person’s glucose is, where it’s going and how fast. They track glucose levels at regular intervals throughout the day and night – as frequently as every 5 minutes – and send dynamic data wirelessly to a display device – like a smartphone – through a transmitter. Importantly, they alert users if their levels go too high or low and provide more accurate insights on how to manage glycaemic levels.
CGM also measures time in range, the percentage of time a person spends with their blood glucose levels in a target range. Time in range makes it easier to understand how to improve glycaemic control and make treatment decisions based on continuous trends in glucose levels, instead of relying solely on the three-month average that a traditional HbA1c test provides. According to recently published survey on time in range, the vast majority of people with insulin-treated diabetes say they feel safe (72%), happier (67%) and healthier (68%) when they spend more time in range[1].
“With the ability to provide more accurate, real time glucose readings, CGM is a game-changer and should be the standard of care for all Australians living with Type 1 diabetes,” said Dr. Samy Saad, General Manager, AMSL Diabetes.
“The Dexcom G6 offers advanced CGM features and the decision to list this device demonstrates the government’s firm commitment to improving access to the most up-to-date, evidence-based technologies. We applaud the government for empowering eligible Australians to more confidently and effectively manage their diabetes – ultimately leading to better health outcomes and an improved quality of life.”
“The NDSS subsidy initiative has meant a great deal to our family, as it has resulted in peace of mind, knowing that we will always have access to CGM for our son, regardless of our financial position,” said Kylie Greenfield, mother to 10-year-old Ethan who lives with Type 1 diabetes.
“Having used CGM for such a long time it has become a fundamental part of diabetes management for our family. Ethan is more confident to go about his everyday life without constantly worrying about his levels, which lifts a massive burden that comes with Type 1 diabetes management. As a family, we all are given a much greater peace of mind to allow him to confidently go to school, actively participate in sporting activities and sleep at night thanks to him wearing CGM. We couldn’t be without it.”
With customisable alerts and alarms, the Dexcom G6 features advanced warnings and outstanding accuracy[2], has the ability to share data in real-time with family, friends and healthcare providers, and is compatible with the popular t:slim X2 insulin pump with Basal IQ technology.
Full details on the Dexcom G6 listing are available from the NDSS website at ndss.com.au. Learn more about the Dexcom G6 features and benefits at https://amsldiabete.wpenginepowered.com/products/dexcom-g6/.
[1] Dexcom Australian data on file from research conducted in 2021
[2] Shah VN, Laffel LM, Wadwa RP, Garg SK: Performance of a Factory-Calibrated Real-Time Continuous Glucose Monitoring System Utilizing an Automated Sensor Applicator. Diabetes Technol Ther 2018;20:428-433
About AMSL Diabetes
AMSL Diabetes is dedicated to helping people live well with diabetes. For over 20 years, AMSL Diabetes has given thousands of people the tools and support they need to improve their quality of life. AMSL Diabetes provides a range of diabetes products to individuals living with diabetes and the healthcare professionals that support them including t:slim X2 Insulin Pumps, Dexcom CGM Systems, OneTouch Blood Glucose Systems and other diabetes accessories. For more information, visit amsldiabetes.com.au.
About DexCom, Inc.
DexCom, Inc. empowers people to take real-time control of diabetes through innovative continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems. Headquartered in San Diego, California, and with operations across Europe, Dexcom has emerged as a leader of diabetes care technology. By listening to the needs of users, caregivers, and providers, Dexcom simplifies and improves diabetes management around the world. For more information about Dexcom CGM, visit dexcom.com.
“The NDSS subsidy initiative has meant a great deal to our family, as it has resulted in peace of mind, knowing that we will always have access to CGM for our son, regardless of our financial position,” said Kylie Greenfield, mother to 10-year-old Ethan who lives with Type 1 diabetes.
