The Federal Government should let GPs approve patient access to subsidised continuous glucose monitoring devices now that all 130,000 Australians with type 1 diabetes are eligible, the RACGP says.

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) technology lets patients track their glucose levels with fewer fingerprick blood tests, but the devices can cost up to $5000 a year on the private market.

Since 1 July, patients have been able to get the devices for $32.50 a month through the National Diabetes Services Scheme — something the Labor Government pledged during its election campaign earlier this year.  

But to get access, the forms must be signed by a diabetes educator, an endocrinologist, a nurse practitioner or a paediatrican.