A study published in Clinical Diabetes highlights the benefits of receiving continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) through durable medical equipment (DME) providers compared to pharmacies.
Adherence Rates:
Patients using DME providers show higher adherence rates:
Medicare/Medicare Advantage: 78% adherence with DME vs. 64% with pharmacy.
Commercially Insured: 60% adherence with DME vs. 48% with pharmacy.
Cost Savings:
Total costs of care are significantly lower for patients using DME providers:
Medicare/Medicare Advantage: Approximately $3,875 less at 12 months ($11,154 vs. $15,029).
Reduced Utilization:
Commercially insured patients using DME providers have fewer emergency room and inpatient days (8 days vs. 11 days).
The study suggests that expanding access to CGMs through pharmacies may not be as effective as intended, emphasizing the need for evidence-based decisions to optimize patient access and improve clinical outcomes.