FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus at GeSY. New sensor also for children aged two and up.

The FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus will gradually replace the existing FreeStyle Libre 2 sensor in the Cypriot GeSY system starting November 2, 2026. The new model can operate for up to 15 days and is intended for people with diabetes from the age of two. The rules for issuing new prescriptions are also changing.

Patients with prescriptions for the previous model can continue to use them until their expiration date. Pharmacies will continue to issue the existing sensors while supplies last. The price of the new device, as stated in the change notice, is €71.37 including VAT, but this should not be confused with the amount payable by GeSY patients.

FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus – what changes for users?

The key differences are the length of use and the minimum age. The previous FreeStyle Libre 2 was intended for ages four and up and operated for up to 14 days. For the Plus version, these are two years and a maximum of 15 days. These parameters are confirmed by the manufacturer, Abbott.

The extra day means a longer period between scheduled sensor replacements. The lower age limit allows the device to be used in younger children, as indicated and in accordance with the instructions for use.

Existing prescriptions remain valid

As reported by Philenews and the Ygeia-News portal, citing the Health Insurance Organization — OAY, as of Monday, November 2, doctors are no longer issuing new prescriptions for FreeStyle Libre 2. FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus is being introduced in its place.

This does not invalidate previously issued prescriptions. They can be used until their expiration date. It is also possible to replace the older product with the new one when filling the existing prescription, if necessary.

Therefore, the transition will not occur simultaneously for all users. Pharmacies may have remaining stocks of the earlier model, which will continue to be dispensed while supplies last.

The price is €4.75 higher. What about the surcharge?

The difference in the reported prices of both models is €4.75 per sensor. However, this information alone does not allow us to conclude that the costs of GeSY patients will increase by this much.

Ygeia-News notes that the device replacement announcement does not specify the impact of the price change on potential payments by beneficiaries. Therefore, we are not presenting the €71.37 as a co-payment or the full cost borne by the person filling the prescription in the system.

Before picking up, it is worth confirming with the pharmacy which model will be dispensed and whether there is any fee associated with filling a specific prescription.

The sensor also monitors glucose between measurements

A continuous glucose monitoring system allows you to monitor your glucose levels throughout the day and night. The sensor measures glucose concentration in the interstitial fluid, the fluid surrounding cells. This is not the same type of measurement as testing a drop of blood with a glucometer.

When changing models, the user manual and compatibility of the reader or app used are also important. The manufacturer describes the Plus version as compatible with the Libre 2 system, but it's worth confirming the correct configuration for your market and device before use.

In the case of a child, the lower age threshold alone does not replace establishing the rules for using the device with the attending physician.

For existing users, maintaining a continuous supply is paramount. A valid prescription for an older model does not automatically expire with the introduction of a new sensor. The method of dispensing can be discussed with the pharmacy, and further monitoring can be discussed with the treating physician.