Abbott has announced that its FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus continuous glucose monitoring system is now part of Singapore’s Ministry of Health (MOH) Continuous Glucose Monitoring Subsidy Programme. This inclusion, recommended by the Agency for Care Effectiveness (ACE), allows eligible individuals with Type 1 diabetes to apply for subsidised sensors through the public healthcare system.
The FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus, known for its 15-day sensor life and high accuracy, is available for people aged two and older, including pregnant women. The subsidy specifically targets those with Type 1, monogenic, or pancreatogenic diabetes who meet ACE’s criteria. For the estimated 2,258 people with Type 1 diabetes in Singapore, this development offers enhanced convenience and timely response to severe hypoglycaemia events.
Candy Gan, a patient advocate with Type 1 diabetes, remarked, “With the inclusion of Abbott’s sensor in the MOH subsidy, people living with diabetes can benefit from more choice, convenience and peace of mind.” The system’s real-time readings empower users to manage their condition more effectively.
Sven Seyffert, divisional vice president of Abbott’s diabetes care business in Asia Pacific, noted, “Singapore was among the earliest countries to use Libre technology in the region, and the latest inclusion of Libre 2 Plus system into the ACE’s subsidy list demonstrates our continued commitment to innovation and access.”
The subsidy can be accessed through public healthcare institutions, requiring a clinical assessment by a specialist diabetes team. The level of subsidy is determined by means testing. This initiative marks a significant step in improving diabetes management and patient autonomy in Singapore.
