AQW 50954/22-27

Mr Danny Donnelly
Alliance Party
East Antrim

Tabled Date: 04/09/2026
Answered On Date: 29/09/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Health to detail any safeguards that are in place to ensure that decisions regarding continuous glucose monitoring technologies are based on individual clinical need and patient outcomes, rather than cost.

Answer:

Decisions regarding continuous glucose monitoring technologies are made by the patient’s Health and Social Care Trust clinical team, in consultation with the patient and, where appropriate, their parent or carer. These decisions take account of the individual’s clinical needs, circumstances and ability to use the technology safely and effectively.

For Hybrid Closed Loop systems, patients must meet the eligibility criteria set out in National Institute for Health and Care Excellence Technology Appraisal 943. The most appropriate system is then determined through discussion between the patient and their clinical team, taking account of clinical suitability, expected patient benefit and the technologies available through the relevant procurement arrangements.

The phased implementation of Hybrid Closed Loop technology will also be supported by regional clinical criteria, structured education, ongoing clinical review and the monitoring of clinical and quality-of-life outcomes. These arrangements are intended to support safe, effective and equitable access across Northern Ireland.