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Treaty One Territory, Manitoba April 26th, 2023

The National Indigenous Diabetes Association (NIDA) is pleased to express its full support for the Government of Canada’s recent decision to include Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) Monitors in the Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) program. This decision, announced on April 25th, 2023, will improve the lives of Indigenous peoples with diabetes on insulin by providing them with access to this essential technology.

The inclusion of CGM Monitors in the NIHB program is a significant step forward in addressing the diabetes epidemic affecting Indigenous peoples across Canada. Diabetes is a chronic disease that disproportionately affects Indigenous peoples, who are three to five times more likely to be diagnosed with diabetes than non-Indigenous Canadians. CGM technology is an important tool for managing diabetes, allowing individuals to monitor their glucose levels in real- time and make informed decisions about their health.

NIDA recognizes that this decision reflects the government’s ongoing efforts to work in partnership with Indigenous Nations, but many steps are still required to close the gap in health outcomes between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. NIDA recognizes the need for the announced expanded coverage, but notes it is still limited. More work needs to be done to ensure all Indigenous peoples living with diabetes, regardless of their use of insulin, have access to necessary resources and tools for managing and improving their health outcomes.

NIDA is committed to work closely with the government and other stakeholders toward advancing diabetes care and treatment for Indigenous People in Canada.

About NIDA

NIDA was formed in 1995 as the result of the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) declaration of the Year of First Nations and Diabetes. Our mission is to be the driving force in addressing diabetes in First Nations, Inuit, and Metis Peoples as a priority health issue. We believe that by working together with peoples, communities, and organizations in a culturally respectful and strategic manner, we can best promote healthy environments to prevent and manage diabetes and improve wholistic health. For more information, please visit our website at www.nada.ca.