Follow-Up to the New Diabetes Canada T1D Guidelines: Technology, AID, & Individualized Care

Diabetes Canada’s updated guidelines recommend automated insulin delivery (AID) systems as the new standard of care for all people living with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Endocrinologist Dr. Ilana Halperin offers expert insights on how healthcare providers can incorporate AID and real-time continuous glucose monitoring (rtCGM) into patient care.

In an interview with registered dietitian Alanna Chambers, Dr. Halperin shares why AID should be part of routine conversations with patients with T1D during clinic visits.

Clear clinical evidence: AID improves health outcomes in patients living with T1D

Dr. Halperin explains that AID systems have “the strongest evidence we have ever had” for improving both glycemic and non-glycemic outcomes in T1D. Clinical data shows the benefits of AID, including increased time in range (TIR), lower A1C, reduced hypoglycemia, reduced diabetes distress, and improved quality of life and patient satisfaction. With benefits like these, AID systems can help reduce the daily self-management challenges for patients, while supporting better health outcomes.

Dr. Halperin notes that for those willing and able to use both an insulin pump and rtCGM, AID systems should be made available as a standard option in diabetes management, with a goal of equitable availability for all individuals with T1D.

Based on clinical evidence and Diabetes Canada’s current Guidelines, healthcare providers can confidently recommend and prescribe AID and rtCGM systems as reliable tools in diabetes management.

Real-time continuous glucose monitoring: the benefits of early initiation

Not every person with type 1 diabetes (T1D) may immediately opt for an AID system. Dr. Halperin cautions that wearing diabetes technology is a decision that should be approached with sensitivity to each patient’s readiness. She encourages healthcare providers to open the door to discussion, starting with tools like real-time continuous monitoring systems.

Devices like the Dexcom G7 rtCGM System offer an easy on-ramp to technology use. Dexcom G7 provides real-time data, predictive low alerts, and seamless integration with AID systems such as the Omnipod 5 and Tandem t:slim x2 insulin pumps. Clinical studies have shown that rtCGM use leads to significant improvements in TIR and A1C in people living with type 1 diabetes.^3-7

Dr. Halperin highlights that there is strong clinical evidence supporting the use of a continuous glucose monitoring device from the time of type 1 diabetes diagnosis,⁸ making it a powerful tool on its own as well as an essential component of an AID system. In addition, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) 2025 Standards of Care recommend early adoption of rtCGM, initiating rtCGM at diagnosis for children living with T1D and using rtCGM as a central tool for all adults living with T1D.⁹

Empowering better diabetes self-management with technology

AID systems, along with real-time continuous glucose monitoring, offer strong, evidence-based support for improving clinical outcomes and reducing the daily challenges of type 1 diabetes. With growing clinical validation and endorsement from both Diabetes Canada and the ADA, automatic insulin delivery systems should be part of clinic conversations with your patients.

Learn more about AID systems powered by Dexcom rtCGM