Joan Collins (Dublin South Central, Independents 4 Change) | Oireachtas source

Last week I received the following email:

My mother has been a type 2 insulin-dependent patient for over 40 years. She was changed over to a Dexcom system nearly two years ago. This system enables patients to manage control over their diabetes through smart technology and eliminates the need for over five finger pricks per day. This also allowed us to share blood sugar readings in real time with a diabetic team. As my mother is approaching 74 with onset memory issues this system has effectively allowed us, her family, to take control of her readings and help us manage her condition alongside her. The diabetic clinic in St. James's Hospital where my mother attends was informed in January that the HSE are no longer funding Dexcom system for type 2 patients.

I clarified the matter again this morning with this young woman. She said she has received clarification that this is not available for new patients, although patients who have been on it for a year will remain on it. Why is this happening?

Why are new patients not getting access to this valuable service?

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