Children with Diabetes Mellitus Type 1 to Receive Updated Continuous Glucose Monitoring Systems and Sensors (CGM)

Children with diabetes mellitus type 1 will receive updated continuous glucose monitoring systems and sensors (CGM).

The newest, fourth generation device by Medtronic, does not require calibration for displaying data. Besides, in case of need, the Ministry will itself procure for children mobile phones required for using Medtronic CGM system.

CGM is a modern technology for control of diabetes mellitus. The system monitors glucose level in every 5 minutes and reflects the data on the mobile app of the patient on non-stop basis. Through real-time control, the system identifies high and low glucose level, blows the whistle, providing opportunity for early addressing and avoiding life-threatening condition.

At the first stage of program implementation the Ministry got in contact with the three CGM international manufacturing companies: Ebot, Dexcom and Medtronic.

The Ministry was considering procurement of different CGM systems and providing the parents with the possibility of choice. Though last year as well as this year, two companies refused form participation in procurement process on the ground that they did not have corresponding infrastructure and representation in the country, which according to them is necessary for introduction of the product.

The Ministry of Health continues cooperation with Medtronic and will provide the beneficiaries with the newest generation sensors free of charge.

It is notable that produced by Medtronic continuous glucose monitoring systems are widely used in the US, and worldwide, in various regions of the world.

The device has FDA authorization and permission by various Stringent Regulatory Authorities in developed countries

It should be noted that from June 1 significant changes have been introduced in State Diabetes Management Program within the component of services for children with diabetes mellitus:

Geographic access has been expanded - test strips, glucometers and lancet needles will be available in 60 pharmacies countrywide.
Starting from June 1, beneficiaries are enabled to receive technical analytical devices and the medicines at the same time in the pharmacies enrolled in the program. Planned outpatient services to patients are provided by 11 different facilities.

As per changes, three-month stock of insulin, test strips and needles for taking blood are disbursed.

The date of disbursement has been corrected – the beneficiaries have possibility to take stocks 10 days earlier before the concrete date defined for them. 

It ought to be noted that after introduction of the changes the regular meeting of the parents with representatives of the Ministry took place. Parents noted that obligation defined by the Resolution of Minister is performed without hindrance.

The services envisaged by the Diabetes Management Program are fully state-funded and free of charge for beneficiaries.