A young mother in Bendigo is asking the government to change the lives of Australians living with diabetes by making diabetes technology more affordable.

Expanding subsidies to make Automated Insulin Delivery (AID) systems and Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) devices more affordable for people living with diabetes is a key area of focus for ������ and the diabetes sector and was an important topic of discussion at the National Diabetes Summit on March 31.

For Caitlin, 32, diabetes technology is the difference between safety and risk for herself and for her eight-month-old son, Mac.

Caitlin was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the age of nine. Like thousands of Australians, she grew up managing the complex autoimmune condition that requires constant vigilance, precise insulin dosing and round-the-clock monitoring to stay alive. For much of her childhood and young adulthood, that management relied on her Mum finger-prick testing her every two hours every night and multiple daily injections of insulin.

As a young adult, access to insulin pump therapy improved Caitlin’s glucose management, but cost meant she could only use continuous glucose monitoring intermittently until the Federal Government introduced subsidies for CGM devices for Australians with type 1 diabetes in 2022.

“That decision by government changed my life,” Caitlin said. “Managing my glucose levels became safer, easier and more predictable.”

Caitlin said she had been told from the time she was a young girl that if she decided to have children, she would have a high-risk pregnancy and would need to have strong control of her glucose levels to avoid complications for both her and the baby.

“Before I got pregnant, I worked extremely hard to keep my levels in the healthiest range. The CGM and insulin pump helped me manage healthy glucose levels.

“Even with that tight, successful management (and I worked extremely hard to control my glucose levels) I ended up with pre-eclampsia. When he was born, Mac was admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit because of concerns about his glucose levels and there were a few other things, but he’s just fine,” she said.

Caitlin is acutely aware that her health is inseparable from her child’s safety.

“My baby’s wellbeing depends on my wellbeing,” she said. “I’m constantly thinking about my glucose levels when I’m driving, when I’m alone at home, when I’m caring for him.”

Despite the proven health benefits, access to AID systems that combine insulin pumps with continuous glucose monitoring remains out of reach for many Australians with type 1 diabetes due to cost.

“Technology is about dignity, safety and equity. People should never have to choose between managing a life-threatening condition or their family’s needs, like paying a mortgage or even putting food on the table,” Caitlin said.

The diabetes community has united in its advocacy to help ensure people living with diabetes can receive the right support and care.

“Diabetes technology saves lives, reduces complications and keeps people out of hospital,” ������ Group CEO Justine Cain said.

“Research shows that CGMs and insulin pumps are game-changing in managing glucose levels and preventing serious complications like heart attack, stroke, blindness and kidney disease.

“Diabetes management costs an individual thousands of dollars each year. It costs our health system billions of dollars each year. Diabetes technologies can help reduce those costs.

“It’s critical that the health sector, government, industry and the community work together to address the impact of Australia’s diabetes epidemic. The National Diabetes Summit is an important opportunity to strengthen that collaboration and drive meaningful action,” Ms Cain said.

The diabetes sector across Australia has come together to call for better access to life-changing diabetes technologies.

Ahead of the National Diabetes Summit in March, the community has made two submissions to the 2026-27 Federal Budget seeking affordable access to diabetes technologies for those who face the greatest risk of complications.

Diabetes is the gateway to 57 other chronic conditions including kidney and cardiovascular disease. Investing in effective diabetes management technologies is one of the most powerful ways to reduce the wider personal and economic impacts of this condition.

The joint submissions, supported by peak diabetes, research and lived experience organisations, urge the Australian Government to expand subsidies for Automated Insulin Delivery (AID) systems for people living with type 1 diabetes in priority groups and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices for people living with type 2 diabetes and other types of diabetes in priority groups, through the National Diabetes Services Scheme.

Together, ������, the Australian Diabetes Society, the Australian Diabetes Educators Association, the Australasian Diabetes in Pregnancy Society, Breakthrough T1D, Diabetes WA, Diabetes Victoria, Diabetes SA, Healthy Living NT and the Australia and New Zealand Society for Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes are proposing practical, targeted reforms that would improve technology affordability, equity and access.

Diabetes costs the Australian health system an estimated $14.2 billion annually, with costs forecast to increase to $45 billion by 2050.

The submissions’ modelling shows that more affordable access to insulin pumps and CGM devices would deliver long-term savings to the health system by reducing preventable complications and hospitalisations.

������’s Group CEO Justine Cain said CGM devices and AID systems are now the standard of care.

“These technologies aren’t a ‘nice to have’, they are absolutely necessary,” Ms Cain said.

“Right now, we’re seeing a widening gap between what we know works and what people can afford. Cost should never determine whether someone can access life‑changing care.

“Technology helps children feel safe at school or on camp. It helps women plan a healthy pregnancy with confidence. For families, it can mean finally sleeping through the night without setting alarms to check glucose levels. For older Australians, it helps to maintain independence and avoid hospital admissions

“These technologies provide real-time insights and precise insulin adjustments that dramatically reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, blindness, kidney disease and limb amputations.

“But for too many Australians, they are simply unaffordable.

“This is an important policy conversation that can deliver meaningful change for people living with diabetes, and we welcome the opportunity to work constructively with government and partners across the sector to take it forward,” Ms Cain said.

The submission on AID subsidies recommends expanding funding for insulin pumps to enable AID systems for 38,000 Australians living with type 1 diabetes in priority groups including children and young adults under 21, people experiencing socioeconomic disadvantage, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and those planning pregnancy or pregnant. The proposed investment is $298.95 million over four years. Should it continue to be adopted in future years, the program is projected to deliver $4.28 billion in net benefits by 2066.

The Australian government already subsidises access to CGM devices for people living with type 1 diabetes. This submission recommends expanding subsidies for CGM to make the devices more affordable for 16,000 people with type 2 and other forms of insulin-treated diabetes in priority groups. They include people on intensive insulin regimens for type 2 diabetes who are healthcare card holders, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people under 21 years of age, and women planning pregnancy through to six months post birth. The submission also recommends subsidies for adults with rare types of insulin-requiring diabetes that are similar to type 1 diabetes.

The proposed investment in CGM subsidies is $106.48 million over four years. Should it continue to be adopted in future years, the program is projected to deliver $1.3 billion in net benefits by 2066, which is a $2.69 return for every dollar invested.

With 2 million Australians living with diagnosed and undiagnosed diabetes, the community believes evidence-based technology delivered through the trusted NDSS infrastructure offers a responsible, forward-looking investment in better health outcomes for individuals, the health system and the nation.

Australasian Diabetes in Pregnancy Society

“Diabetes is a key driver of health inequity in Australia. Investment in these life changing technologies will save money in the long run and improve health outcomes for those most at risk.”
Dr Matthew Hare, President, ADIPS

Australian Diabetes Society

“Equitable and affordable access to diabetes-management technology is critical to providing effective care for people with diabetes and the cornerstone of advocacy for the Australian Diabetes Society. These budget submissions are the first step to technology access for all Australians living with diabetes.”
Sof Andrikopoulos, CEO, ADS

Australian Diabetes Educators Association

“Expanding subsidies for diabetes technology must go hand in hand with investment in the diabetes workforce. As outlined in the joint submissions, funding dedicated consultations with Credentialled Diabetes Educators (CDEs), alongside national training and coordinated referral pathways, will maximise clinical outcomes, strengthen workforce productivity and ensure the health system is ready for increased uptake of AID systems and CGM.”
Melanie Morris, CEO, ADEA

Breakthrough T1D Australia

“AID systems represent the standard of care for people living with type 1 diabetes. They enable optimal condition management, improve quality of life, and deliver meaningful cost savings to the public health system. We’ve seen the transformative impact of CGM subsidisation, with more than 70% of Australians living with type 1 diabetes now using this technology. We are so grateful to the Government for this, and we want to see similar access to insulin pumps, which are currently used by just 30% of the community.

“The future we envision is one where no Australian affected by type 1 diabetes has to weigh up cost when deciding whether to access life-saving technology.”
Sydney Yovic, CEO, Breakthrough T1D.

Australia & New Zealand Society for Paediatric Endocrinology in Diabetes (ANZSPED)

“ANZSPED supports these targeted proposals to expand access to Automated Insulin Delivery and continuous glucose monitoring through the NDSS, particularly for children, young people and other high-risk groups. These technologies represent contemporary standards of care that reduce clinical risk, ease the daily burden on families, and deliver long-term health system value by preventing avoidable complications and hospitalisations.”
Dr Tony Huynh, President, ANZSPED

Diabetes WA

“Diabetes WA is proud to stand by the side of West Australians living with diabetes and amplify their voices through this joint submission. Our commitment to this advocacy reflects our belief that diabetes technology is truly transformative when it is affordable and accessible.”
Melanie Gates, CEO, Diabetes WA

Diabetes SA

“What we are seeing is a widening gap between what we know works and what people can access. These technologies are not a luxury, they are essential. When people are priced out of care that we know prevents complications and hospital admissions, the system is failing.”
Catherine Hughes, CEO, Diabetes SA 

Diabetes Victoria

“Treatment and technology should be affordable and easy to access for all people living with diabetes. We are proud to join with other diabetes organisations in the sector to advocate for this.”
Glen Noonan, CEO, Diabetes Victoria

Healthy Living NT

“Healthy Living NT is a strong advocate for equity in access to healthcare and this life-changing technology should be affordable and accessible across Australia to support people with diabetes.” Anne Kemp, CEO, Healthy Living NT

National Diabetes Summit

The National Diabetes Summit, to be held at Parliament House on 31 March, will provide an important platform for discussion about the increasing impact of diabetes on Australians, including the benefits of technology. The landmark summit will bring together leaders across diabetes, health, research, policy and advocacy to accelerate practical solutions and drive long-term policy change to strengthen the health system.

About ������   

������ is the national peak body supporting people living with, and at risk of, diabetes. We are leading the national response to Australia’s largest health crisis, working in collaboration with people with lived experience, member organisations, peak bodies, health professionals, state-based organisations, researchers and the community. Our work focuses on supporting people with diabetes to live well, providing information, resources, and support services, as well as investing in prevention, and reducing the impact of diabetes on people, health systems and society. We advocate for positive change that will create a healthier future for everyone.   

For information:                Monica Rostron, ������ – 0409 126 332

������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������mrostron@diabetesaustralia.com.au

Australia’s response to one of its most significant health challenges will come into sharp focus at ������’s National Diabetes Summit in March.

The landmark summit at Parliament House in Canberra will bring together leaders across diabetes, health, research, policy and advocacy to address the increasing impact of diabetes on Australians.

With two million Australians living with diabetes and growing pressure on hospitals, primary care and government budgets, the event aims to accelerate practical solutions and long-term policy change.

The summit will provide a platform for collaboration and innovation, exploring bold strategies to improve outcomes for people living with diabetes while strengthening Australia’s health system for future generations. The program is designed to foster cross-sector dialogue, connect lived experience with decision-making, and translate evidence into action.

A key focus of the day will be engaging influential voices shaping national health policy and contributing to reforms that improve health outcomes and equity. Participants will include people living with diabetes, health system leaders, policymakers, advocates and decision-makers, creating a rare opportunity for direct exchange at the heart of government.

Following the summit, an Exhibition and Networking Reception will showcase the latest technologies, services, treatments and research advancing diabetes prevention and management, offering hands-on exposure to innovations already reshaping care and support across Australia.

The National Diabetes Summit is designed for those seeking to influence the future of diabetes policy and practice, understand emerging technologies, and contribute to a national conversation with real-world impact. It underscores the importance of coordinated leadership at a time when prevention, early intervention and equitable access to care and diabetes technology are more critical than ever.

The National Diabetes Summit will be held at Australian Parliament House in Canberra on Tuesday, 31 March 2026.

Official registration:

Users of the t:slim X2 insulin pump are being made aware of a malfunction that could stop the device from working.

The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has that certain versions of the insulin pump have a wiring problem with the speaker that could stop the delivery of insulin.

Australasian Medical and Scientific Ltd (AMSL) alerted the TGA to the failure which appears on device screens as Malfunction Code 16-0x20E6, or simply ‘Malfunction 16’. 

ARTG number	Catalogue number	Multiple serial numbers
304681	1002717	5317 unique serial numbers identified in Australia

What are the risks?

The problem could:

• Stop insulin delivery and disconnect the pump from the Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) and mobile app.
• Lead to hyperglycaemia if not addressed promptly.
• Require patients to seek medical intervention or hospitalisation in serious cases.
• Result in loss of real-time glucose data and trends.

What should I do?

• If Malfunction 16 has not occurred:
  • Continue using your pump as per the user guide.
  • Install the Tandem t:slim mobile app and enable push notifications. This ensures that if the problem does occur, you will be notified by the app.
  • If using a Dexcom sensor, use the Dexcom mobile app as a backup source for CGM alerts and alarms.
• If a Malfunction 16 occurs:
  • Acknowledge the alert by pressing “Silence Alarm.”
  • Contact AMSL Technical Support at 1300 851 056, who will arrange for a replacement pump.
  • In the meantime, switch to your backup insulin delivery method.

You should continue to monitor your blood glucose levels regularly and ensure a backup insulin method is available as per the pump training and user guide.

Further information

Please contact AMSL on 1300 851 056 for further information. 

A software update is in development that will improve early detection of speaker failure and introduce persistent vibration alerts. Pump users will be notified when this software update becomes available.

Reporting problems

Consumers and health professionals are encouraged to . Your report will contribute to our monitoring of these products. For more information see the .

The TGA cannot give advice about an individual’s medical condition. You are strongly encouraged to talk with a health professional if you are concerned about a possible adverse event associated with a medical device.

By Rebecca McPhee, Accredited Practising Dietitian and Health Coach

The advancement of technology in recent years has transformed the way we manage diabetes. Today, blood glucose levels and carbohydrate intake can be tracked more easily and accurately through mobile apps. These digital tools provide real-time data, personalised insights, and often integrate with glucose meters and wearable devices, offering a more convenient and proactive approach to diabetes management than ever before.

Considerations when choosing an app

• Australian food database: Opt for apps that utilise Australian food databases to ensure accurate nutritional information. ​
• Units of measurement: Ensure the app uses Australian units such as mmol/L for blood glucose and grams for carbohydrates.
• Integration with devices: Apps that sync with glucose meters or continuous glucose monitors (CGM) can provide more accurate tracking and insights.​

The following 10 apps are tailored to the Australian market, ensuring accurate data and relevant features for users in Australia. They can be downloaded from the respective app stores or accessed through their official websites.​

1.

• Description: Track BGLs, medication, HbAlc, weight and carb intake through food database.
• Features: Track trends in BGLs, insulin, weight, HbAlc. Comprehensive education plan featuring 5-minute lessons available. ‘Meal IQ’ to help make better food choices. Integrates with Dexcom and Apple Health.

2.

• Description: An intuitive app designed to make diabetes management easy. It syncs with Accu-Chek meters for seamless data logging.
• Features: Blood glucose logging, meal tracking, estimated HbA1c, and bolus calculator.
• Availability: Available on iOS and Android.

3.

• Description: A comprehensive food database app that provides nutritional information, including carbohydrate content, for a wide range of foods.
• Features: Free. Barcode scanning, meal logging, and personalised nutrition tracking.
• Availability: Available on iOS and Android. Note: Ensure you download the Australian version for accurate data.​

4.

• Description: An Australian-developed app that allows users to log meals and track nutritional intake, including carbohydrates.
• Features: Free. Food database, meal planning, and progress tracking.
• Availability: Available on iOS and Android.​

5.

• Description: An app that uses image recognition to estimate carbohydrate content in meals.
• Features: Photo-based carb estimation, glucose level insights, and meal tracking.
• Availability: Available on iOS and Android.

6.  

• Description: Weight loss calorie counter (including carbohydrates).
• Features: Free. Food data base. Choose ‘Australian data’ in settings.
• Availability: Available on iOS.

7.

• Description: Health and nutrition tracking (including carbohydrates).
• Features: Free. Extensive food data base. Barcoding and meal plan logging. Syncs with fitness trackers and apps. No BGL or insulin logging.
• Availability: Available on iOS and Android.

8.

• Description: An app that works with the FreeStyle Libre sensor to provide real-time glucose readings.
• Features: Continuous glucose monitoring, trend analysis, and alerts.
• Availability: Available on iOS and Android.

9.

• Description: An app that syncs with CONTOUR connected meters to provide detailed insights into blood glucose patterns.
• Features: Blood glucose tracking, activity logging and log carbs; trend analysis.
• Availability: Available on iOS and Android.

10.

• Description: A comprehensive diabetes management platform that offers continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) and personalised nutrition coaching.
• Features: Real-time glucose tracking, meal logging, sleep and activity integration, and dietitian support. Wearable integration – you can sync with Apple Health and other wearables to get a complete view of your health metrics.
• Availability: Available on iOS and Android.

By selecting an app that aligns with your specific needs and preferences, you can enhance your diabetes management and make informed decisions about your health.

With the Federal Election date now set for May 3, Australia’s leading diabetes advocacy organisations are calling for election commitments to expand affordable access to life changing technologies for people living with diabetes.

The cost-of-living crisis is hitting Australians hard, with many people living with diabetes forced to choose between essential medical technology and basic necessities. The latest ������ cost of living survey found that for 61 percent of people, the cost of diabetes medicines and technologies was their greatest challenge. 

������ Group CEO Justine Cain said Australians living with all types of diabetes should have equitable access to the technology they need to live well.

“Nobody should have to decide between good health care and putting food on the table,” Ms Cain said.

“The bi-partisan support to expand continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) device subsidies for people living with type 1 diabetes in 2022 was welcome and much needed, and we thank both the Government and the Opposition for that.

“Unfortunately, people living with type 2 diabetes requiring multiple daily insulin injections are still being denied the same subsidy. On top of that, thousands of Australians living with type 1 diabetes who can’t afford top level private health insurance are not able to afford insulin pumps.

“This situation cannot continue. Not only are we falling behind the diabetes technology provided in many other developed nations, but as a country we are now failing to provide what is considered standard care in the management of diabetes. There is clear evidence that access to diabetes technologies reduces overall healthcare costs for both the individual and the healthcare system.

“A person’s bank balance or postcode should not be a barrier to good health,” Ms Cain said.

In its policy paper Equitable Access to Diabetes Technology, ������ recommends a $200 million investment over four years to expand subsidised access to diabetes technologies for key priority groups as a first step. 

Expanding subsidies for CGM devices will provide access for approximately 22,000 people living with type 2 diabetes, and expanding subsidies for insulin pumps will increase access to a further 16,000 people living with type 1 diabetes.

James Lequertier, 80, lives with type 2 diabetes, and says access to a CGM has helped him a lot. But as a self-funded retiree, he’s paying more than $200 a month out of pocket.

Despite maintaining a healthy weight and living an active lifestyle with no family history of the condition, James was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes 30 years ago and has been using insulin since 2000.

“Since I started using a CGM six months ago, my HbA1c has dropped to 7.8%. It’s because I can finally see what’s happening with my blood glucose in real time,” James said. “Just swapping in crispbread instead of eating regular bread at lunch has made a difference, but I wouldn’t have known that as easily without CGM.

“It’s impossible to achieve continuous monitoring with a lancing device, commonly known as a finger prick.”

He says CGM has made managing his diabetes easier and safer, but the cost is a burden.

“What price do you put on your health?” James said.

James has written to both the current and former Federal Health Ministers urging them to subsidise CGM for people with type 2 diabetes who are dependent on insulin.

“There’s a lot of people who have much higher glucose levels than me. They should be able to access the diabetes technology that would help them.”

Technology that supports the management of blood glucose is critically important, given the health complications that can arise when they do not remain within a healthy range. 

More than 1.5 million Australians are living with diabetes and 500,000 are living with undiagnosed diabetes. More than 300 people are diagnosed every day and it is estimated the number of people living with diabetes in Australia will exceed 3.1 million by 2050.

������, the and the say the diabetes epidemic in Australia is at a crisis point. It is time for both the ALP and Coalition parties to make a public commitment to address the current inequity in the system that gives some people access to technologies while others go without.   

The growing epidemic of diabetes is one of the most complex health challenges facing our nation. The latest data estimates that 10 percent of all hospitalisations in Australia in 2021-22 were associated with diabetes.

There has never been a more critical time to act.

The Diabetes Alliance has called on the Federal Government to commit to, and fund, the recommendations of the Parliament Inquiry into Diabetes.

In a submission to the Federal Budget process, the Alliance highlighted key priorities from the recommendations including access to diabetes technologies, investment in research, support for the diabetes workforce and investment in prevention. 

With over two million Australians living with diagnosed and undiagnosed diabetes, the condition is the cause of a growing crisis costing the health system $3.4 billion annually.

The Parliamentary Inquiry report, , includes 23 recommendations including support for expanding access to diabetes technologies, coordinating diabetes research, better funding the diabetes workforce and investing in diabetes prevention. The recommendations are a comprehensive package of measures that would begin to stem the tide of Australia’s diabetes epidemic

������’s position statement on equitable access to technology formed part of the budget submission. It advocates for a staged approach to expanding subsidies for insulin pumps for people living with type 1 diabetes and continuous glucose monitoring devices for people living with type 2 diabetes.

More funding for diabetes research is also a key focus for the Federal Budget. A decline in funding for diabetes research in Australia has had a significant impact on the field.

In 2023, NHMRC (the Australian Government’s primary health and medical research funding agency), provided only $19 million for diabetes research, which is less than half of the amount allocated in 2022.

A budget submission from the Australian Diabetes Society, ������ and the Australian Diabetes Educators Association calls for $50 million in funding for priority areas of research including the causes of diabetes, prevention and remission, complications, and the rates of diabetes in the general population; as well as $75 million for diabetes-specific investigator grants.

The sector acknowledges and celebrates the Federal Government’s announcement last year to fund the Clinical Research Network of JDRF Australia. This is a significant investment in type 1 diabetes research. The Alliance is advocating for investment in other areas of diabetes research as well.

The Australian Diabetes Alliance

The Australian Diabetes Alliance comprises the country’s major diabetes organisations in collective advocacy for the sector: ������, the Australian Diabetes Educators Association, the Australian Diabetes Society, JDRF Australia, the Australasian Diabetes in Pregnancy Society, and the Australian and New Zealand Society for Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes.

An Urgent Product Correction Notification has been issued for Dexcom G6 Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) receivers.

Manufacturer AMSL Diabetes says some customers of the G6 receiver may experience an issue where alerts/alarms do not function as they should. In very rare instances, the alert/alarm may be missed or delayed.  

Users rely on these alerts to show glucose levels that are too high or too low. If these alerts do not operate as expected, users may not receive timely notifications.

The manufacturer lists identification information relating to the affected devices as (STK-GS-120 – All batches) ARTG 169241.

Users are urged to take immediate action to ensure their device is functioning correctly and to avoid potential health risks.

The manufacturer has outlined a series of steps for users to verify that their alerts are functioning properly. These include checking the device settings, ensuring notifications are enabled, and confirming that software updates have been installed. Additionally, users can perform regular manual glucose monitoring as a backup measure.

Individuals who experience issues with their device should seek immediate help from Dexcom’s customer support team on 1300 851 056 or email diabetes@amsl.com.au with the product serial number listed on the back.

Do you manage multiple prescriptions? If so, you may find it useful to set up an Active Script List (ASL). An ASL is a digital list of your electronic prescriptions. The advantage of having an ASL is that you don’t have to keep track of individual tokens. Currently, 85% of pharmacies across Australia now have access to the ASL and can dispense your medicines, providing you have given them permission. 

Getting started 

To set up your ASL, you will need to visit your pharmacy. Take your mobile phone and 100 points of identification, such as a passport, birth certificate, driving licence, Centrelink card or Medicare card. The pharmacy will set up the service for you. You will be asked to consent to the service after reviewing and agreeing to the terms and conditions.

How it works 

Once registered, all your electronic prescriptions will automatically be added to your ASL. The next time a prescription is issued to you by a health provider it will show up on your ASL and you will be able to pick up the medication from your nominated pharmacy. If you don’t want all your medications to be added, just let your doctor and pharmacist know. 

Having an ASL means you don’t need to keep track of tokens issued through electronic prescribing because the pharmacy can access your prescriptions through your ASL (with your permission).

If you change your mind and decide you no longer want an ASL, you must email the Active Script List Registry info@medicationknowledge.com.au to request the removal. 

Find out more

The use of digital tools for managing your health is both convenient and empowering. If you are comfortable with using technology such as your mobile phone and the internet you will likely find these tools easy and efficient to use. For more information on My Health Record click here, and find out more about electronic prescriptions here. For help getting started, or for further information, visit . 

Article updated 11 July 2025

Preparing for travel when you are wearing a device calls for some advanced planning.

Before flying 

• Obtain a letter from your health practitioner that documents that you must wear your Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) and insulin pump. 
• Pack enough supplies for your holiday and a few extras. For example, if a CGM sensor malfunctions, be sure to have the contact number of your manufacturer to get a replacement, as the  (NDSS) subsidy for CGM and Flash GM has a maximum supply limit.  
• Carry all your diabetes supplies in your carry-on luggage. This is not only to prevent loss from misplaced bags but also because luggage stored in cargo can be subjected to extreme temperature changes, which may inactivate your insulin. 
• Carry your NDSS card with you. This will help with your diabetes identification.  
• If you are away from the country for a while, consider a loan pump. Please talk to your pump company about this. 
• Pack both rapid and long-acting insulin pens in case your insulin pump gets damaged. 
• Ask your diabetes team about pump disconnection doses. If you experience a line or pump failure, you must know your pump’s Total Daily Dose (TDD).   
• Visit your CDE before your trip for and travel suggestions. 

Boarding a flight

• Notify security screeners that you are wearing an insulin pump and cannot remove your CGM. If required, show your medical letter. In addition, your spare CGM sensors cannot go through the airport carry-on luggage x-ray machine.  
• The pump is designed to withstand common electromagnetic interference. As a result, it can be safely carried through metal detectors, but it cannot be exposed to any form of x-rays. This includes airline luggage x-ray machines and full body scanners.  
• Metal detectors and hand wands are safe. Ask airport security staff to physically check you and your luggage before using the x-ray equipment. Security staff must respond to such a request under government agency regulations. If travelling internationally, your insulin pump may be swabbed for explosives. 
• If you go through the full-body scanner, you must disconnect and remove both your insulin pump, sensor, and transmitter. To avoid removing your devices, you should request an alternative screening process that does not use x-ray. 

In the air

• Keep your insulin supplies and hypo snacks close to you, not in the overhead compartment during the flight. This ensures you have snacks on hand in case of hypoglycaemia or delayed meals or snacks.  
• Check your glucose levels more frequently while travelling, mainly when time changes occur. 
• You can keep your receiver on before take-off, in flight and after landing. 
• The airlines request you put your smart device in Airplane Mode. You can do this, but keep your Bluetooth on and you will be able to receive sensor glucose information on your smart device.  
• Cabin air pressure can change during take-off and landing. Talk to your diabetes team about suspending or disconnecting the pump during take-off and landing.  
• Wait until you arrive at your destination before changing the time (and the date if appropriate) in your pump. First, make sure the am/pm is correct.

Bon voyage and have a wonderful trip.  

For general flying tips

Travel checklist

  

Pump Company Websites 

Smart Traveller Recommendations 

 

 

By Karen Jameson Registered Nurse and Credentialled Diabetes Educator 
_{This article was originally published in June 2023}