People are currently accessing funded CGMs via alternative funding streams including:

  • Health NZ Carer Support

  • Work and Income Disability Allowance

  • Ministry of Social Development Child Disability Allowance

  • Ministry of Disabled People | Whaikaha Carer Support

Pharmac have engaged with these agencies regarding their respective support schemes, which are being used to enable access to diabetes technology. These agencies have indicated their intention to continue providing these alternative funding streams.

My CGM is funded by the Disability Allowance, will MSD know these are being funded and to alter my benefit, or do I need to have make an appointment to update my details?

We suggest making an appointment with MSD following your first prescription of funded CGM. The Disability Allowance application states: You need to let us know about changes that might affect the amount you’re paid.  While the examples don’t specifically list changes in costs associated with the disability, as these are listed specifically when determining eligibility and amount of allowance, it is a good idea to discuss with your case manager the change in funding to avoid having to pay back any payments made to you once you are receiving funding for CGMs.

 

Will the Child Disability Allowance be cancelled now that CGMs are funded?

Child Disability Allowance is a fortnightly payment made to the main carer of a child or young person with a serious disability. It is paid in recognition of the extra care and attention needed for that child. Currently Type 1 Diabetes in a child is a qualifying condition for the Child Disability Allowance, this is in recognition of the diagnosis and not a payment directly related to purchasing CGMs.

The Child Disability Allowance is determined by a range of factors.  To get the best idea of whether you will still be eligible, visit Ministry of Social Development and complete the questionnaire for an indication as to whether you will be impacted.  If you do not currently receive this, you can apply for this allowance via the same link.  

 

What can I use my Carer Support Funds on now that I don’t need them for CGMs?

There are 2 main funding streams for Carer Support payments in New Zealand – Whaikaha (Ministry of Disabled People) and Te Whatu Ora (Health New Zealand). Each funding system has different guidelines about what Carer Support funds can be used for.

It is firstly important to know who is administering the Carer Support funding in your situation, for most children with Type 1 Diabetes this will be Te Whatu Ora, but not in all cases. This can be found on your Carer Support personalised Claim Forms or by calling 0800 855 066.

Information on Te Whatu Ora funded carer support can be found here.

Te Whatu Ora has purchasing guidelines available here.

Information for Carer Support administered by Whaikaha is available here with specific purchasing guidelines here.