Promised government subsidy for diabetes monitors still in negotiations

Plans to reduce the cost of a crucial device for diabetic mothers-to-be have been put on hold, despite being approved by the government six months ago. Here’s what’s causing the hold up.

Hilary Molinia is still waiting for a subsidy for her diabetes treatment. Picture: Andy Brownbill

A simple method to stay on top of her diabetes is costing Hilary Molinia about $200 a month after a Federal Government promise didn’t come to fruition.

The Pascoe Vale South woman was excited at the prospect of starting a family with her husband after it was announced in November that flash glucose monitoring would be free for those with type 1 diabetes who were either pregnant, planning a pregnancy or had given birth from March 1 this year.

The device is embedded under the skin and helps Ms Molinia, who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes as a nine-year-old, constantly monitor her blood glucose levels through a mobile app.

But stalled negotiations between the Government and the company behind the monitors, Freestyle Libre, has meant Ms Molinia is still paying about $100 a fortnight to use the product.

“I’ve been using the device for over a year and it’s really improved my diabetic control,” she said.

“I’ve always had irregular levels so maintaining that control is great for me.

“(If a woman falls pregnant) it’s like learning how to be a diabetic all over again, so it’s really important to have a device you feel comfortable with.”

Glenroy mother Monika Pruckner said the same device was crucial to her navigating the birth of her son Max and the subsidy would ease financial issues for her family.

“I have bad hyperglycaemia awareness, which is dangerous when pregnant, so flash glucose monitoring has been amazing for me,” she said.

“My partner is the sole breadwinner right now. We make sure we’ve got everything else that is a complete necessity covered in our budget before we spend money on (the device).”

Monika Pruckner with her son Max and partner Chris

Health Minister Greg Hunt said in November the Government planned to add Freestyle Libre to the subsidy scheme.

But the Department of Health confirmed with the Leader that the monitors hadn’t been added due to continuing price negotiations with Freestyle Libre.

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According to Diabetes Australia, 791 people live in Moreland with type 1 diabetes and Diabetes Australia chief executive Professor Greg Johnson said there was consumer demand to use the product.

More than 200,000 people have signed a Change.org petition to subsidise the devices.

A statement released by Freestyle Libre said negotiations had been ongoing with the Government for two years and it hoped to reach an agreement soon.