6. Will the First Minister provide an update on the qualifying criteria for flash and continuous glucose monitoring technology for diabetes management? OQ58672

Updated qualifying criteria are published regularly by the bodies responsible for clinical guidance. Health Technology Wales's latest advice on these matters was published in July 2021. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence updates its guidelines in June.

Thank you, Trefnydd. As you know, the most recent update in NICE guidelines concerning the eligibility for flash and continuous glucose monitoring, CGM, is without a doubt a major step in helping those who live with type 1 diabetes access better technology in managing their blood glucose levels. This is important because not only does it help people manage their lives, and in particular their daily activities better, but, long term, it will reduce the number of avoidable long-term health conditions they experience, such as peripheral neuropathy and microvascular and macrovascular blood vessel damage. Therefore, this technology will not only improve the overall health of those with type 1 diabetes, but also improve mortality rates.

In response to a written question by Hefin David on 22 April this year, the health Minister cited staff training obligations as a possible obstacle to implementing the new NICE guidelines. I'm aware, in some cases—and this isn't to downplay healthcare professionals—that patients actually have considerably better knowledge of the new technology available to them and how it works than health professionals, and there's a great deal of variation of the training received between health boards. With this in mind, Trefnydd, what commitment will the Welsh Government make to ensure that all healthcare staff in Wales are fully trained in the use of and implementation of flash and CGM technology? Thank you.

Thank you. I think you raise a very important point, because continuous glucose monitoring is recommended for all type 1 diabetics, and it is important that they are able to access that. I'm not aware of any announcement from the Minister for Health and Social Services in relation to all healthcare staff having that ability, but, obviously, she's in the Chamber and has heard your question, and if there is anything further, I will ask her to write to you.