Technology-for-all is key to managing diabetes

All people with type 1 diabetes should have equitable access to the most effective management systems, including technology where clinically appropriate, regardless of age, concessional status or level of private health insurance cover, according to the authors of a consensus statement published by the Medical Journal of Australia.

A working group comprising of representatives from the Australian Diabetes Society (ADS), the Australian Diabetes Educators Association (ADEA), the Australasian Paediatric Endocrine Group (APEG) and the Australasian Diabetes in Pregnancy Society (ADIPS) produced the consensus statement to be read in conjunction with the Australian living evidence guidelines in diabetes "for continually updated evidence-based recommendations regarding the comparative efficacy of technologies."

"This Australian consensus statement provides a unified implementation framework to ensure optimal utilization of diabetes management technologies with international relevance," the authors, led by Associate Professor Glynis Ross from the University of Sydney, and Dr. Anthony Pease from Monash University and Monash Health.

"In addition to ongoing advocacy for greater access, the proposed implementation framework highlights the need for accreditation, credentialling and technology-specific funding initiatives for health care professionals to support the management of people with type 1 diabetes using technologies that generate large volumes of complex data.

"The working group also outlines the need for ongoing appraisal of implementation strategies, safety reporting, and funding initiatives to ensure sustainable health care and optimal outcomes for all people living with type 1 diabetes.

"The overarching focus for the working group was the need for access to diabetes management technologies as well as a strategic implementation framework."