British Columbia is expanding public coverage for continuous glucose monitors to eligible adults with diabetes who require daily insulin, the provincial health ministry announced Tuesday. Pharmacare coverage begins April 1.
The change is expected to benefit about 15,000 people across B.C. and save patients upwards of $3,000 a year in out-of-pocket medical expenses.
Coverage was previously limited primarily to youth and people with specific medical exceptions. Continuous glucose monitors track blood sugar levels over time.
Health Minister Adrian Dix said modern glucose-monitoring technology drastically reduces emergency room visits and severe hypoglycemic episodes.
Eligible patients will be able to access the devices through their regular community pharmacy with a prescription once the expansion takes effect.