DeGette Successfully Pushes VA to Cover Continuous Glucose Monitors

U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette (D-CO), co-chair of the Congressional Diabetes Caucus, has successfully pushed the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to begin covering Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) for veterans who rely on insulin or have a problematic history of hypoglycemia.

“Our veterans deserve the best care available,” said Rep. Diana DeGette. “CGMs offer detailed data that can help patients and doctors better manage their care. This change will make a real difference in the lives of veterans across the nation and millions will benefit, including the almost 30,000 veterans who live in Denver. I commend VA Secretary Denis McDonough and the staff at the VA for being responsive to this request and moving quickly to implement this change.”

This move comes after a recent change from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to begin covering the device for Medicare beneficiaries after noting the device’s positive health benefits. When she learned of Medicare’s policy change, Rep. DeGette, alongside Diabetes Caucus co-chair Rep. Gus Bilirakis of Florida, reached out to the VA in a letter sent this May.

In early October, the VA followed up with Rep. DeGette informing her that the change she sought would be made – allowing more veterans to access this technology and improve their health.

Our veterans deserve the best care available.”
U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette

Continuous Glucose Monitors automatically and continuously collect data to monitor blood glucose levels, or blood sugar. Patients can see blood glucose levels at any time and review how levels change throughout the day. Analyzing this data in real-time can help patients make more informed decisions about the food and beverages they consume, the physical activity they do, and the medicines they take.