Young Yukoners living with Type 1 Diabetes will continue to benefit from government support to manage their condition.
As of April 1, the Government of Yukon will provide ongoing funding for continuous glucose monitoring to all Yukoners with Type 1 Diabetes from age 2 to 18.
The decision to provide permanent funding follows an evaluation of a 2018 pilot program for Yukoners with Type 1 Diabetes up to age 25. The pilot provided participants with access to funded continuous glucose monitors (CGM) for a period of two years. Pilot participants reported the program helped them better manage their conditions, improve their quality of life and reduce their financial burden.
Yukoners aged 19 to 25 who were part of the pilot program will continue to receive funding for continuous glucose monitoring until a program is available for adults. A program for Yukoners with Type 1 Diabetes over age 18 is currently being developed.
Minister of Health and Social Services Pauline Frost said in a statement, We recognize the challenges that Yukoners with Type 1 Diabetes and their families face on a daily basis. The pilot program helped us understand how we can best support these families to live happy, healthy lives. Providing ongoing funding for continuous glucose monitors will provide certainty to help ensure young Yukoners are able to manage their conditions effectively.
Stacey Hassard, Leader of the Official Opposition said in a statement, "We are proud to have fought for this commitment as it will have a real and lasting impact on the lives of many Yukoners. I want to thank Premier Sandy Silver and NDP Leader Kate White for working with the Yukon Party to get this done."
The cost of continuous glucose monitors will be fully covered through Insured Health Services for Yukoners who meet the eligibility criteria. Continuous glucose monitors are approved by Health Canada for use by individuals over two years old.