(October 20, 2023, St. John’s): Paul Dinn, PC Official Opposition Shadow Minister for Health and Community Services and MHA for Topsail-Paradise, says he’s glad to see continuous glucose monitoring pilot program, but questions how long before a fully realized program will be available.

“Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices are a way to help those living with diabetes better manage the condition. Newfoundland and Labrador has some of the highest rates of diabetes – 35 per cent, according to the Canadian Diabetes Association,” said Dinn.

“The pilot program is a good step, but if it took over a year to introduce the pilot, I worry it may be years before a wider program is available to the people of the province. My caucus colleagues and I have been pressuring the Liberal Government to step up on CGMs for years. We need the Minister to recognize the urgency.”

Dinn says the Health Accord is clear that a healthy population means fewer demands on the healthcare system, which CGMs could help support.

“The numbers are startling: 30 per cent of strokes, and 40 per cent of heart attacks are related to the management of diabetes. Better management of the condition can help those living with it avoid more serious outcomes and enjoy a higher quality of life,” said Dinn.

“The Liberal Government needs to ensure this pilot program is followed through on and CGMs can be more widely offered to those who need them in our province. We can’t wait another year or more for progress for those living with diabetes.”

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Contacts:

David Maher

Director of Strategic Communications

(cell) 709-725-0984

DavidMaher@gov.nl.ca