Limerick senator calls for new diabetes strategy

Senator Maria Byrne

A NEW approach to diabetes in the form of a national strategy is urgently needed to tackle difficult issues facing those with the condition.

That’s according to Limerick Fine Gael Senator Maria Byrne who highlighted the fact that there is currently an age restriction in place for those who need to access the Dexcom Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) device, Freestyle Libre.

“Those eligible for access to the device are children and young adults between the ages of  4 and 21. Although the HSE has statutory responsibility for decisions on pricing, easy access to this product is crucial for those with diabetes.

“The online application process allows consultants to make an application in very exceptional circumstances for those above 21 years of age. This is simply not good enough and a new approach is needed,” she added.

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