30 Organizations Urge Alabama Governor Kay Ivey to Improve Continuous Glucose Monitor Access

12.13.2024 /Press Release

30 Organizations Urge Alabama Governor Kay Ivey to Improve Continuous Glucose Monitor Access

A diverse group of 30 organizations representing children, families, churches, community groups, and health care providers are 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, including pregnant women with gestational diabetes.

"Expanding access to continuous glucose monitors will ensure a vital lifeline for thousands of Alabamians," said Ben Anderson, deputy senior director of health policy at Families USA. "Continuous glucose monitors empower patients to take control of their own well-being and make decisions about diet and exercise that will improve health and reduce hospital admissions. Governor Ivey has a tremendous opportunity to make a profound impact on the lives of Alabama families."

Due to the high incidence of complications that can arise as a result of diabetes, leading to other serious medical conditions, the American Diabetes Association estimates diabetes treatment costs the state more than $5 billion dollars annually.

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.

The letter concludes by urging 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."

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Families USA, a leading national voice for health care consumers, is dedicated to the achievement of high quality, affordable health care and improved health for all.