Is the JDRF site you linked to for CGMS support only for USA, it seemed so looking at it? I have been trying to get some support through my health insurance company in Australia (Medibank Private), I provided a long submission with references (lodged 1 Sep 08), but have had nil response so far.

I think it is so important that for all those who wish to use it, have access, the potential benefits I think are significant, better informed, more control, reduced costs to the health care system … Once the companies start to release the intelligent pumps, the use of CGMS will be mandatory for closed loop feedback, whether that be the first generation partial closed loop system, hopefully here in 2009 or in a few years time the new generation closed loop systems.

Currently in Australia only the Medtronic CGMS is available, I believe the Dexcom and Abott units may be released here in 2009, the cost is prohibitive at $72 per sensor plus the transmitter for use on an ongoing basis.

Thanks Tony

The CGMS is cheaper in the States than here, perhaps that may change in time. I agree that with the BG calibration and so on its not as effective, but it would be very useful for me, even for looking at trends for your basal rates.

I always think, especially with the Medtronic setup we should be able to get some closed loop automation going by now. Most of the problem seems to be in getting a good control algorithm (like a PID controller) going to account for the many variables and of cause getting it approved by your FDA and our TGA. The sensors also as we know are not 100% accurate; research studies I have seen shows the Navigator as the most accurate especially in the hypo region.

There is still a lot of research to be done as far as I have read and maybe quite a few developments will be needed before we get anything that is truely very useful…better sensors, getting over the insulin action delays etc etc…but it seems we should be able to get a better system now. But of course we have got to be able to afford it!

I am hopeful that when Medtronic release their new pump next year, it will incorporate useful feedback, as I understand, it will have something. I believe it may be shutting off the basal rate on prediction of a hypo, they would do that by using an algorithm to predict the hypo crossover point based on CGMS readings, probably taken up to 1/2 an hour before hand (I’ve seen papers on that). That may be quite a useful feature, as that is hopefully what one would do maually if seeing such a trend on the CGMS. There has also been research done on automating insulin dosing for meals, so hopefully we can’t be too far away.

I’m going to follow up with my insurance company again, I w’ont hold my breath, but I feel I have got to try.

Hi Michelle – thank you for the comment.

I would think that 90% is really good coverage for CGM. I hear you trying to lose some weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Thanks again!