Palmas implements glucose monitoring via SUS amid mortality rate concerns

Palmas has become the first city in Brazil's Northern region to provide continuous glucose monitoring sensors through the Unified Health System (SUS). The initiative, aimed at children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes, provides technology to increase patient autonomy and safety.

However, during a public hearing regarding municipal health spending, the Public Ministry of Tocantins (MPTO) raised alarms over rising mortality rates. Prosecutor Thiago Ribeiro reported that infant mortality has reached 11.40 deaths per thousand live births, exceeding the target of 10. Maternal mortality is also significantly above the established ceiling, reaching 65.83 deaths per 100,000 live births against a target of 41.

The MPTO highlighted deficiencies in prenatal care, specifically noting insufficient rates of rapid testing for syphilis and HIV among pregnant women, and called for improved follow-up for postpartum women and newborns.