The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, in partnership with Newfoundland and Labrador Health Services, is pleased to announce the launch of the expanded continuous glucose monitoring program to include individuals with gestational diabetes mellitus.
This initiative builds on the important work of the Provincial Government to improve diabetes care. It follows the May announcement of the program’s expansion to include all individuals living with Type 1 diabetes who meet the medical and income-testing criteria. This expansion supports Health Accord’s vision of improved health and health outcomes and aligns with the National Diabetes Framework.
Gestational diabetes mellitus occurs when a person without diabetes develops high blood sugar levels during pregnancy. Poor glycemic status is closely related to maternal and neonatal complications. Continuous glucose monitor use in gestational diabetes mellitus shows promise for improving maternal glycemic control.
To be eligible for the new continuous glucose monitoring expansion, residents must:
- Be pregnant.
- Have a confirmed diagnosis of gestational diabetes (through a glucose tolerance test).
- Be deemed to medically require continuous glucose monitoring.
- Be a permanent resident.
- Hold a valid Medical Care Plan (MCP) card.
The continuous glucose monitoring will be provided for a short-term use, which is typically between three to five months during pregnancy. Dexcom is the only approved device for use under this program.
The Newfoundland and Labrador Insulin Pump Program will coordinate applications for continuous glucose monitoring devices. Income testing will not be required, as the support is intended for short-term, essential medical use.
For more information on continuous glucose monitoring pilot or eligibility criteria, residents are encouraged to contact NLCGMP@nlhealthservices.ca.
Quotes
“I am very pleased with the expansion of the continuous glucose monitoring program to include people with gestational diabetes. Glucose monitoring is a vital tool for ensuring the health and safety of the parent and the baby during pregnancy. Expanding this program helps produce healthier outcomes and reflects the Provincial Government’s commitment to fostering healthier individuals, families, and communities as we continue our journey to become one of Canada’s healthiest provinces.”
Honourable Krista Lynn Howell
Minister of Health and Community Services
“Expanding access to continuous glucose monitoring for individuals with gestational diabetes is a meaningful step toward advancing health equity and improving outcomes for pregnant people in Newfoundland and Labrador. This initiative reflects our government’s commitment to health promotion and to ensuring that all individuals can access the care they need during a critical time in their lives. By supporting better glycemic control, we are supporting healthy pregnancies, healthy babies, and a strong future for our communities.”
Honourable Sherry Gambin-Walsh
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality
“At NL Health Services, we understand how challenging it may be for people to manage their diabetes day to day, and how much of a difference the right tools can make. That’s why we are excited about the expansion of this important program. Continuous glucose monitoring can be life-changing, especially for those who are pregnant. We expect these expanded services will offer peace of mind and help support better maternal and fetal health outcomes.”
Tonya Lane
Director of Medicine (Interim), Eastern-Urban Zone, NL Health Services
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