30 Organizations Send Letter to Alabama Governor Ivey on Expanding Access to Continuous Glucose Monitors

30 organizations representing patients, providers and diabetics, have sent a letter asking Governor Kay Ivey to update Alabama Medicaid policy to expand access to continuous glucose monitors (CGMs). CGMs are critical tools that help people manage their diabetes and stay healthy. Expanded access to CGMs would help anyone who manages their diabetes through insulin, including type I and type II diabetics, as well as those with gestational diabetes that occurs during pregnancy. The monitor is easy to use and apply and can drastically change a patient’s real-time relationship with glucose (blood sugar) equipping them with more information about their health so they can make informed decisions with their health care provider.

The letter underscores how Medicaid coverage of CGMs would reduce hospitalization rates and costs, while improving the health of adults, children, mothers and babies. In addition, CGMs improve the real-time relationship between patients, their doctors, and their glucose (blood sugar) readings so they can make better informed decisions about their health — staying healthier, longer. The groups also praised Gov. Ivey’s previous diabetes care enhancements — but noted that the state can take additional steps to improve health outcomes for those with the condition that rely on Medicaid for their health care.

Expanding Medicaid to cover CGMs will not only improve the health and well-being of Alabamians diagnosed with diabetes, it offers peace of mind and the ability to closely monitor and be informed about their health. Governor Ivey has the opportunity to provide that, making a profound impact in Alabama communities. This letter urges Gov. Ivey to “follow the data and take immediate steps to improve access to lifesaving CGMs for those who stand to benefit the most — pregnant women, infants and children, and low-income people in rural communities.”

To learn more about this critical initiative, read the full letter by clicking the button below.