Currently under the Medi-Cal program, low income individuals receive health care services, including but not limited to: doctor visits, hospital care, immunization, pregnancy-related services, and nursing home care. However, diabetic recipients of the Medi-Cal program are still forced to pay out-of-pocket for a continuous glucose monitor. The CGM allows patients to continuously track their blood sugar, helping assist their health and overall quality of life.
The bill, AB 447, would add continuous glucose monitors, and any related supplies required for use with those monitors, to the list of benefits under the Medi-Cal program for the treatment of type 1 and type 2 diabetes. With the passing of this bill, CGMs would be covered as “medically necessary” for people with type 1 and 2 diabetes.
It worries me that so many diabetics in the US do not have access to the continuous glucose monitor. It is important for all diabetics to get the equal, proper “care,” which the CGM falls under, in order to maintain their health and avoid the high costs and complications associated with diabetes. I believe that because Medi-Cal does not currently cover this cost, diabetics reliant on Medi-Cal are at greater risk of developing complications, costly ER visits, hospitalizations, and treatments.
You may view the history of the bill at: https://leginfo.legislature.
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