As of the company’s announcement, Manitoba is the only province in Canada that does not require an application for coverage preapproval. That means improved access for patients and a reduced workload for prescribers.
Expanded coverage establishes Manitoba as the leader in coverage for real-time continuous glucose monitoring (rtCGM) among Canadian provinces.
Dexcom said in a news release that this ease of access raises the bar for other jurisdictions across Canada. The latest step ensures Manitobans can improve self-management of diabetes at home and improve their patient experience. They can also preserve health system capacity by reducing the risk of severe hypoglycemia.
“We praise Manitoba government’s leadership in expanding its coverage for Dexcom G6 to be inclusive of all individuals living with diabetes using insulin and simplifying the administrative burden and workload for prescribers,” said André Côté, VP and GM, Dexcom Canada. “In today’s healthcare climate, reducing this burden is a huge step forward. This decision is a true representation of what supporting the diabetes community looks like. I hope more provinces follow Manitoba’s lead.”
Manitoba Pharmacare now offers access to Dexcom G6 to those with eligibility as of March 14, 2023.
“I’m thrilled with Manitoba’s decision to broaden access to diabetes technology to people of all ages with type 1 or type 2 diabetes,” said Dr. Jennifer Yamamoto, assistant professor, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Manitoba. “More people in our province can now experience the benefits of real-time CGM for their diabetes management, which is an essential tool for increasing time spent in target glucose range, reducing occurrences of severe hypoglycemia and improving quality of life.”
About the Dexcom G6
The Dexcom G6 uses a small, wearable sensor and transmitter to continuously measure glucose. It transmits glucose levels wirelessly to a smart device or receiver. This allows patients to evaluate real-time data without scanning or pricking their finger routinely.
Dexcom’s system features customizable and predictive alerts and an urgent low alarm to help avoid hypoglycemic events. The G6 app also allows patients to share glucose information with up to 10 followers. This allows family, loved ones and healthcare providers to remotely monitor patients.
Health Canada approved the G6 for people with diabetes ages two and up in early 2019. It’s remained one of the leading CGM systems around the world since its introduction. The next-generation Dexcom G7 received U.S. FDA approval in December 2022 but has yet to receive Canadian authorization.
Dexcom G6 also offers connectivity through integrations with insulin delivery systems and digital health apps.
