Cost barrier leaves many with diabetes without crucial tech

Advanced diabetes management technologies like insulin pumps, continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) and flash glucose monitors (FGMs) are transforming lives, but their high costs create a significant healthcare disparity in Australia.

The Rural Doctors Association of Australia (RDAA) this National Diabetes Week 2024 (14 to 21 July 2024) is advocating for broader subsidies to make these life-changing devices accessible to all diabetics, regardless of age, location, or economic status.

RDAA President Dr RT Lewandowski emphasised the critical nature of the issue: “These new technologies have been game changers in recent years, helping those with diabetes to manage what is a complicated and relentless disease, and to avoid the many complications that can arise from it.”

The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reports that people in remote areas are 2.5 times more likely to be hospitalised with diabetes than those in major cities. Additionally, the disease burden is 4.1 times higher among Indigenous Australians.

Dr Lewandowski argues for expanding access: “Subsidised access to insulin pumps should be available to all those with diabetes who need one and can’t afford one, not just those under the age of 21. Likewise, continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and flash glucose monitoring (FGM) technology is a very effective way for those with all types of diabetes to keep on top of their blood sugar levels…but again, it is not available to all.”

The RDAA contends that broader access to these technologies would not only improve patient outcomes but also reduce healthcare costs by preventing complications and emergency interventions.

“We are at a major turning point in our journey of managing diabetes, where technology is providing enormous benefit to those living with this complicated disease – but the technology must be affordable to all,” Dr Lewandowski states.

The association urges the Federal Government to expand subsidy programs, ensuring that life-saving diabetes management tools are available to all who need them, regardless of their ability to pay.

Ritchelle Drilon

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Ritchelle is a Content Producer for Healthcare Channel, Australia’s premier resource of information for healthcare.

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