More physicians and healthcare systems recommend continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems for managing diabetes. Still, a new study suggests that where patients obtain these devices significantly impacts their outcomes and costs.

The study, published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research Diabetes, found that patients who received glucose monitoring devices from medical device suppliers had 23% greater adherence to therapy and lower overall costs than those who obtained the devices through a pharmacy. Costs were 53% higher for patients who used the pharmacy route for their CGM supplies.

This study, co-authored by Arti Masturzo, MD, Chief Medical Officer at CCS, is the first to examine the correlation between where patients receive their devices and their health outcomes and costs. Masturzo emphasizes the importance of this finding, particularly as some Medicaid programs consider moving CGM devices to a pharmacy benefit. She believes this small policy change can significantly affect patient care and healthcare costs.

Masturzo explains that medical device suppliers are more likely to provide detailed instructions and support to patients on CGM devices, especially for new users unfamiliar with the technology. In contrast, despite their best efforts, pharmacists often don’t have the time to offer in-depth guidance due to their workload.

“You need that upfront education on how to use it, and you need folks that are going to spend the time to do that right,” says Masturzo.

The study, which looked at over 2,300 patients, showed that while adherence dropped over time in both groups, patients who received CGM devices through medical suppliers were more likely to resume use after stopping. The re-initiation rate was 22% for those with a medical benefit, compared to just 10% for those with a pharmacy benefit.

Masturzo was particularly surprised by the 53% cost difference between the two groups. “The number that stuck out to me the most,” she said, underscores the need for healthcare plans to rethink how they provide access to CGM devices, balancing patient outcomes and cost savings.

Masturzo hopes the study will lead to more patients being offered CGM systems as a medical benefit, ultimately improving patient care and reducing healthcare costs. She believes this research highlights how small policy changes can significantly impact patient health and economic outcomes, particularly for state Medicaid programs and health plans seeking to optimize care for members.