What Glucose Monitors Does Medicare Cover?
Overview of Glucose Monitors
Glucose monitors are electronic devices that measure the level of glucose (sugar) in the blood. They are commonly used by people with diabetes to track their blood sugar levels and make informed decisions about their treatment plans. With the increasing demand for glucose monitors, Medicare has started covering certain diabetes medications, making it easier for seniors to manage their diabetes.
Medicare Coverage of Glucose Monitors
In 2016, Medicare began covering glucose monitors, along with the diabetes medications, that are recommended by the American Diabetes Association (ADA). The following diabetes medications and glucose monitors are covered by Medicare:
Diabetes Medications Covered by Medicare
- Biguanides: metformin, glyburide, glyburide + metformin, glyburide + metformin + sulfonylurea, digoxin, hydrochlorothiazide, liraglutide, linagliptin, phentermine-topiramate, sitagliptin, tolbutamide
- Sulfonylureas: glipizide, glimepiride, gliclazide, glyburide, meglitinide
- Meglitinides: exenatide, naloxexe, **apamorolimus, filbrutide, sitagliptin_
- Thiazolidinediones: pioglitazone, rosiglitazone, ticaglitol
- GLP-1 agonists: apideglirine, dulaglutide, exenatide, glipizide, **niraglutide**
- Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors: nicoglutide, **vedolizumab**
Medicare Coverage of Glucose Monitors
- Manual Glucose Meters: The following glucose meters are covered by Medicare:
- CCM Classic
- CAXIS
- Meten Classic
- Medtronic 6 Series
- Omron T7
- Zebra 4021
- Automated Glucose Meters: The following automated glucose meters are covered by Medicare:
- Omron EnthusiaXL
- Medtronic 12 Series
- Meten QuickLab
- Contour Next
- Smart Glucose Monitors: Some smart glucose monitors are covered by Medicare, including:
- Omron EasyTrack
- Medtronic Guardian Connect
Things to Consider When Buying a Glucose Monitor
- Battery Life: Look for a glucose monitor with a long battery life (at least 10 days) to minimize battery replacement.
- Sensor Type: Choose a glucose meter with a CM7 (carbend simplest carbohydrate-7 sensor) or CS7 (carbend simplest carbohydrate-7 sensor) sensor.
- Reading Range: Opt for a glucose meter with a reading range that covers the whole spectrum of glucose levels (e.g., 2-0 mmol/L).
- Ease of Use: Select a glucose meter with a user-friendly interface and simple setup process.
Tips for Choosing a Glucose Monitor
- Consult with a Healthcare Professional: Get guidance from a healthcare professional on choosing the best glucose monitor for your specific needs.
- Check the Label: Read the label carefully to ensure that the glucose meter meets the Medicare requirements.
- Consider Additional Features: Some glucose monitors come with additional features, such as multiple reading modes or external blood glucose testing strips.
Conclusion
Medicare coverage of glucose monitors has opened up new possibilities for seniors to manage their diabetes. By understanding what glucose monitors Medicare covers and how to choose the right one, individuals with diabetes can make informed decisions about their treatment plans. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional and check the label to ensure that your glucose monitor meets the Medicare requirements.