Over thirteen years ago it became possible to have a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) for personal use and now more and more people are using them. Continuous glucose monitoring (also CGM) has gotten so good (reliable/accurate) that I’m even using one (for more on that journey click here).
My experience with CGM (almost 18 months now) has taught me that every person with diabetes needs one of these. It’s incredible what this information can tell us and how it can help us make adjustments that can lead to improvements in the way we feel and our productivity. For me, the most important thing about managing diabetes (and the only reason, quite honestly, to do it) is to put ourselves in the best position to live life fully. CGM helps us live well with diabetes so that we can truly live. (Unfortunately, having a CGM has also shed light on how inadequate our existing/available insulin is and how desperately we need “smart” insulin, or at least insulin that works a lot faster and more predictably!! but I digress).
Anyway, our friends at diaTribe have created a guide on Medicaid coverage for CGM. At the very least it’s interesting to know which states cover CGM and what the requirements are. At the most, we may want to start talking to our legislators about fixing this situation in (many) states that don’t have sufficient or any coverage. It’s that important. CGM can and will change diabetes management and outcomes for all people with diabetes. CGM will help us advance diabetes research.
I never thought I would be ready to give up my blood glucose meter. I didn’t think I minded poking my finger multiple times a day. Now I know that CGM is better. It gives me more and better information with which I can make more informed and better decisions for managing my diabetes. It’s time for all people with diabetes to have this life-changing tool.