Statement: The Association of Parents of Children with Diabetes (APCD) calls for RAMQ coverage for life-saving technologies for people with type 1 diabetes (T1D)

MONTREAL, March 11, 2020 /CNW/ - On February 10, The Institut National d'Excellence en Santé et Services Sociaux (INESSS) published its assessment regarding the relevance of public coverage of the Dexcom G6 system, a continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) technology for T1D.

The assessment recognizes the risks and life-threatening dangers that this autoimmune disease represents - as well as the significant therapeutic value of the Dexcom system. However, the report does not recommend reimbursement for Dexcom G6 due to its cost. 

Every day, a new child in Quebec receives a T1D diagnosis. The social inequality, the excessive burden, overwhelming and degenerative aspects of the disease, the loss of pleasure of life, the risks of complications, the financial burden on the already besieged health system is maintained by the status quo.

In response, Michaella Etienne, President of APCD issued the following statement:

"Insulin-dependent patients must simulate on their own the functions of a vital organ that no longer works. Their survival is maintained by the use of external medical devices like the Dexcom. How can we deny people with a serious disability access to those devices?

Insulin-dependent patients, including children, are the only ones who completely self-manage prescription drugs (insulin), including calculating, dosing, adjustments and administration.

My daughter's Dexcom proves its worth day and night. It is the only safeguard that prevents the life-threatening events of type 1 diabetes from harming her. Every child has the right to a healthy and safe childhood, regardless of family income.

We thank the signatories of the two petitions asking for public coverage of CGMs presented to the National Assembly and we call upon the public to continue to show their solidarity.

We ask Minister McCann to display sensitivity and compassion by intervening urgently in this file, to put an end to the discrimination of patients requiring the technology."

Association of Parents of Children with Diabetes
The Association of Parents with Diabetes is the Canadian spokesperson for parents and caregivers of children with type 1 diabetes, dedicated to awareness, education, advocacy and support.

SOURCE Association of Parents of Children with Diabetes

For further information: For all questions and interview requests, please contact Michaella Etienne, President of the Association of Children with Diabetes, tel: [phone], www.diakids.ca