Walgreens Offers Increased Access to Glucose Monitoring Devices Through Medicare

Through the launch of a new billing solution, Medicare patients will now be able to obtain continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices at any of Walgreens’ retail pharmacy locations.

This adjustment makes Walgreens the largest retail pharmacy to provide increased and faster access to CGM devices like the Dexcom G6 CGM. 

“Currently, prescriptions for CGM devices covered by Medicare Part B are filled through Durable Medical Equipment suppliers, manufacturers or limited pharmacies, which can result in additional health care costs and delays in obtaining devices,” explained Walgreens in a press release. 

The company’s new billing solution will provide easier access for patients using the Dexcom G6 model. Walgreens is also in talks with other CGM manufacturers with the hope of integrating more models to be covered under their billing solution. 

Rick Gates, senior vice president of pharmacy and health care for Walgreens, said, “This builds on Walgreens commitment to providing innovative solutions to simplify the customer experience and support patients managing chronic conditions, like diabetes.”

Mr Gates is referring to Walgreens’ recent Find Care platform that was announced earlier this year. Through this platform, diabetes patients “can learn how to simplify and centralize critical health information with state-of-the-art health monitoring devices, like the Dexcom G6 CGM.”

Using a small, wearable sensor, the Dexcom G6 monitors patients glucose levels and syncs with a smart device or receiver to be recorded. The device also provides levels of customization for patients to set reminders and alerts for monitoring, as well as an option to share data with up to 10 followers.

“Research continues to demonstrate CGM should be the standard of care for all diabetes patients on intensive insulin therapy,” said Kevin Sayer, executive chairman, president, and CEO of Dexcom. “Getting the Dexcom G6 into the hands of Medicare patients through Walgreens pharmacies is a significant step forward in increasing access to the most powerful diabetes management tool available.”

Walgreens noted in its press release that it also accepts commercial insurance patients for all CGM devices, and Part B for select specialty medications and glucose monitoring supplies.  —Edan Stanley