Diabetes' Economic Burden and the Rise of CGM Devices

Welcome back to another Managed Healthcare Executive Between The Lines series. In this episode titled, 'Diabetes' Economic Burden and the Rise of CGM Devices,' Estay Greene led the conversation about the following questions:

1. What are the direct and indirect costs of diabetes?

2. What are continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices?

Estay Greene and Victoria Bouhairie highlighted the significant economic burden of diabetes on the U.S. healthcare system, noting that diabetes-related direct and indirect costs account for approximately 25% of every healthcare dollar spent. The experts also explored the evolution of glucose monitoring technology, contrasting traditional finger-stick testing, which may require up to eight checks per day, with modern CGM devices that provide continuous readings every five to fifteen minutes with far less frequent application. The discussion also touched on the cost differences between CGM devices and conventional blood glucose monitors for both payers and patients.

Throughout the conversation, the experts provide a comprehensive reflection on the field and the factors that may shape how clinicians approach care moving forward.

In the next episode, 'CGM vs. Finger Sticks: Benefits, Drawbacks, and Real-World Impact', panelists will continue their discussion on diabetes and highlight the pros and cons of each glucose monitoring method, real-world patient outcomes, and how improved monitoring can reduce long-term costs.