Medical infusion news& trends

CMS increases Medicare coverage for diabetes to include continuous glucose monitors that interface with Medtronic insulin pumps.

DUBLIN, Ireland, December 22, 2021 /PRNewswire(opens new window)/ — Medtronic plc (NYSE:MDT), a worldwide leader in healthcare technology, said today that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) in the United States would extend Medicare coverage for all kinds of continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), including adjunctive and non-adjunctive CGMs. This includes continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) that interface with Medtronic insulin pumps. The proposed rule was finalized on December 21, 2021, and will take effect 60 days following publication in the Federal Register.

“We applaud CMS for taking action to assist more individuals with diabetes and allowing them to chose the treatments that best fit their diabetes management requirements,” said Jeff Farkas, vice president of Medtronic’s Diabetes unit for health economics, reimbursement, and government relations. “This is a critical benefit extension for our customers who have benefited significantly clinically and in terms of quality of life from their integrated Medtronic insulin pump systems and are now eligible for Medicare coverage for the whole system.”

Additionally, this extended coverage provides treatment continuity for those using specific Medtronic insulin pump systems who transfer to Medicare — including Medtronic hybrid closed loop devices that automatically alter insulin supply based on CGM readings. Until the verdict takes effect, Medtronic will continue to provide its CGM Access Discount(opens new window) to all Medicare clients.

“The CMS judgement provides much-needed comfort to the many patients with diabetes who, like me, want to remain on their Medtronic insulin pump throughout their Medicare transition. I’m quite thankful of the company’s efforts to keep CGM inexpensive while collaborating with CMS to make it a reality “Terry Weland said. “I’ve personally benefited tremendously from integrated pump treatment, and I’m delighted that this expands access to a large number of individuals seeking to improve their diabetes control. CGM technology is critical to me and many others like me since it enables us to maintain optimal glucose management and health outcomes.”