CGM coverage in Newfoundland and Labrador

Newfoundland and Labrador provides financial support for continuous glucose monitoring systems through the Provincial Continuous Glucose Monitoring Program. Coverage is available for eligible residents living with Type 1 diabetes who meet medical and income testing criteria and may be responsible for an income tested copayment toward costs. The Provincial Continuous Glucose Monitoring Program began as a pilot project in 2023 for children with Type 1 diabetes. On May 22, 2025, the provincial government announced a major expansion starting September 30, 2025 that will extend eligibility to all individuals with Type 1 diabetes of any age who meet medical and income testing criteria.

To learn more about which CGM systems are available across Canada, visit Our Guide to Continuous Glucose Monitors in Canada.

Eligibility for the Provincial Continuous Glucose Monitoring Program depends on when you apply and your specific circumstances. You currently qualify if all of the following apply:

• You are a Newfoundland and Labrador resident with a valid Medical Care Plan number
• You have Type 1 diabetes
• You meet one of these criteria: 
  
  • You are under 18 years of age
  • You are between 18 and 24 years of age and enrolled in the Newfoundland and Labrador Insulin Pump Program
  • You are a woman with Type 1 diabetes who is pregnant
  • You have gestational diabetes mellitus and your healthcare provider determines that CGM use is medically necessary during pregnancy
• Your healthcare provider confirms that continuous glucose monitoring is medically necessary for you

Contact the program at NLCGMP@nlhealthservices.ca to confirm specific medical eligibility requirements for your situation.

Starting September 30, 2025, eligibility expands significantly: 

• All individuals with Type 1 diabetes of any age will be eligible
• You must meet the medical eligibility criteria
• You must meet income testing criteria unless exempt
• Approximately 4,600 individuals with Type 1 diabetes across the province will qualify for the expanded program

There are no upper age restrictions under the expanded program. Children, youth and adults of all ages with Type 1 diabetes may qualify if they meet the medical and income testing criteria.

The Provincial Continuous Glucose Monitoring Program covers approved continuous glucose monitoring systems. Currently approved CGM systems include: 

• Dexcom G6
• Dexcom G7 

What the program funds:

The Provincial Continuous Glucose Monitoring Program provides full or partial coverage for approved CGM components: 

• CGM sensors according to program guidelines
• CGM transmitters if required for the device
• Dexcom receivers available at no cost for people who do not have a compatible smartphone

Coverage amounts vary based on income testing:

• Under 18 years: Full coverage after all other financially obligated programs have paid such as private insurance
• 18 years and older: Full or partial coverage based on income testing after all other financially obligated programs have paid

Newfoundland and Labrador follows a payer of last resort model. This means:

• If you have private insurance, you must use that coverage first
• The program covers only the uninsured portion of CGM costs
• Coverage under the program is determined through income testing for adults

For individuals with gestational diabetes mellitus, income testing is not required when CGM use is medically necessary for short term essential management during pregnancy.

The Provincial Continuous Glucose Monitoring Program uses the same income testing criteria as the Newfoundland and Labrador Insulin Pump Program. 

Universal coverage for children and youth 

All medically eligible applicants under the age of 18 receive full coverage for CGM supplies after all other financially obligated programs have paid such as private insurance. No income testing or copayment is required for this age group. 

Income tested coverage for adults 

Medically eligible applicants 18 years and older can apply for financial assistance through the income testing process. If approved: 

• Financial assistance is provided after all other financially obligated programs have paid such as private insurance
• A client monthly copayment may be required based on your income level
• The copayment amount is determined through the income testing process. 

The program acts as payer of last resort meaning the program pays the remaining portion of CGM costs after private insurance and any required client copayment. 

Exemptions from income testing

Income testing is not required for individuals with gestational diabetes mellitus, as this support is intended for medically necessary short term use during pregnancy.

The application process requires documentation from both you and your healthcare provider showing that you meet program criteria. 

Step 1: Request application package 

Email NLCGMP@nlhealthservices.ca to request an application package. The package includes:

• Application Form 
• Verification of Medical Eligibility Form 

Step 2: Complete medical eligibility form 

Your healthcare provider must complete the Verification of Medical Eligibility Form confirming: 

• Your Type 1 diabetes diagnosis or gestational diabetes diagnosis
• That you meet the medical criteria for CGM use
• Your current treatment regimen

Step 3: Complete application form

You must complete the Application Form with information including: 

• Personal information and Medical Care Plan number
• Diabetes diagnosis and treatment details 
• Insurance coverage information if applicable
• Income information for income testing if applicable

Step 4: Submit application 

Submit your completed application and medical eligibility form by email to NLCGMP@nlhealthservices.ca. 

Step 5: Wait for approval

Once approved for coverage, you will be able to access your CGM supplies at your local pharmacy. 

Program updates 

The provincial government will share updates on the September 30, 2025 expansion as they become available. Check with the program or your healthcare provider for the latest eligibility requirements and application procedures.

Private insurance: Many employer and private insurance plans cover CGM systems. Eligibility criteria vary and may be less restrictive than the public program. Check your policy for device coverage and limits.

‍Out-of-pocket payment: CGM systems can be purchased directly without insurance. Costs vary by device and usage patterns. Expenses typically include sensors and transmitters and can amount to several thousand dollars annually.

Managing your supplies and staying connected with your diabetes care team is important for safe and effective CGM use. The Endor Health app supports ongoing communication with your care team so questions about your CGM data or therapy can be addressed promptly. The app also provides convenient home delivery of insulin, prescription items, and CGM sensors at no added cost, helping reduce the risk of missed refills or last minute pharmacy visits.

The information in this article is for educational purposes only and should not replace advice from your healthcare provider. Always consult with your diabetes care team before making changes to your diabetes management.