Walgreens debuts Medicare billing solution to enable CGM access

Walgreens is rolling out a billing solution that will allow Medicare patients using Dexcom’s G6 continuous glucose monitoring, or CGM, device to fill their prescription at any of its 9,200 pharmacies. This move makes Walgreens the largest retail pharmacy chain offering nationwide distribution for Dexcom’s device. 

Currently, prescriptions for CGM devices covered by Medicare Part B are filled through durable medical equipment manufacturers or limited pharmacies, which Walgreens said can lead to delay in obtaining devices and additional costs. With Walgreens’ billing solution, the company said patients who are prescribed the Dexcom G6 can get it at their local Walgreens pharmacy. The company said it is working with other CGM device manufacturers to incorporate their product into the retailer’s billing model. 

“Leveraging Walgreens nationwide footprint and our expertise in providing medical billing solutions, we’re able to deliver a unique combination of personalized care and streamlined processes, making it easier for physicians and patients to prescribe and fill the Dexcom G6 at our stores,” said Rick Gates, senior vice president of pharmacy and healthcare, Walgreens. “This builds on Walgreens commitment to providing innovative solutions to simplify the customer experience and support patients managing chronic conditions, like diabetes.”

Earlier this year, Walgreens upgraded its Find Care platform to include Dexcom’s and other manufacturers’ connected medical devices and digital solutions for patients with chronic conditions. 

“Research continues to demonstrate CGM should be the standard of care for all diabetes patients on intensive insulin therapy,” said Kevin Sayer, executive chairman president and CEO of Dexcom. “Getting the Dexcom G6 into the hands of Medicare patients through Walgreens pharmacies is a significant step forward in increasing access to the most powerful diabetes management tool available.”

The Dexcom G6 uses a small, wearable sensor and transmitter to continuously measure and send glucose levels wirelessly to a smart device or receiver, giving patients real-time glucose data without the need to prick their finger. The system also offers customizable alerts and alarms to help avoid dangerous low and high blood sugar events and a function that allows patients to share their glucose data in real time with up to 10 followers.

Walgreens also accepts commercial insurance patients for all CGM devices, as well as Medicare Part B for select specialty medications and other blood glucose monitoring and supplies.

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