A new price deal between the NHS and the manufacturer means that the Dexcom ONE real-time continuous glucose monitoring (rt-CGM) system will be made available for all people with type 1 diabetes and certain groups with type 2 diabetes who are using insulin.
Previously, rt-CGM was more expensive than intermittently scanned (flash) CGM; however, the new deal means that the Dexcom ONE will be available on the NHS England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland drug tariff at a similar price.
The price agreement follows updates to NICE guidelines in March which recommend that adults with type 1 diabetes should be offered a choice of flash or rt-CGM, children should be offered rt-CGM, and people with type 2 diabetes using insulin can be considered for rt-CGM if it is available for the same or lower cost as flash.
The Dexcom ONE features a wearable sensor that lasts up to 10 days and continuously monitors glucose levels and sends values wirelessly to a receiver or compatible smart device, along with customisable alerts to warn against hypo- and hyperglycaemia.
As of 1 August, patients will receive their starter pack – which will include information on the product and usage, a sensor and transmitter – from the hospital or GP surgery once prescribed, after which they can go to the pharmacy for their repeat prescription.