People living with type 1 diabetes will have access to life-changing technology as new proposals for wider access to continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) are released.
In the proposals, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has recommended making continuous glucose monitors available to all patients with type 1 diabetes.
The technology will support the 3.9 million people in the United Kingdom living with type 1 diabetes and carers of those with the condition.
Type 1 diabetics can say goodbye to finger-prick testing and be able to use a device that will send blood glucose readings continuously.
This will enable them to see trends in glucose levels and alert them of high and low readings.
The information collected about blood glucose levels can be accessed instantly and shared with their healthcare team so they can review and adjust the patient’s treatment accordingly.
Whereas before a person living with type 1 diabetes had to reach certain criteria to qualify for a continuous glucose monitor, now any adult and all children will have access.
Lewis Farren, a carer said: “We have already seen the difference that the use of technology can make to improve managing life with type 1 diabetes, to know we are able to access technology long term is now such a relief.
“This might not be suitable for everyone but having the choice is what will make people’s lives easier and not being restricted.”
Dr Partha Kar, the UK’s co-lead doctor in diabetes told Yorkshire Voice: “It brings me so much joy, happiness and excitement from so many parents who have kids with type 1 diabetes and anyone else who lives with the condition. It’s a lovely feeling.”
Elizabeth Oliver, a type 1 diabetic who could now have access to continuous glucose monitors said: “This will change so many lives for the better and with the progress of technology in years to come, controlling type 1 diabetes will get easier and easier.”
The new guidelines are expected to be published on March 31 2022.