The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) has joined a multi-state initiative aimed at enhancing diabetes care for Medicaid recipients. The initiative, known as the Continuous Glucose Monitor Access Accelerator, is led by the Center for Health Care Strategies and includes states such as Oklahoma, Iowa, Kentucky, Michigan, New Jersey, and South Dakota.
The 18-month program seeks to improve access to continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) for Medicaid clients receiving treatment in primary care settings across Texas, which has a diverse population. CGMs are widely used in the U.S. to monitor glucose levels, helping individuals with diabetes prevent complications and emergencies, as noted by the American Diabetes Association. Texas Medicaid already covers CGMs and other diabetes-related benefits, including lab services, equipment, and supplies for monitoring and treatment.
The accelerator program offers information and resources on CGMs and facilitates networking opportunities among participating states. HHSC plans to use the program to increase understanding and prescription of CGMs through education and training for healthcare providers.
Dr. Ryan Van Ramshorst, Chief Medical Director of HHSC Medicaid & CHIP Services, expressed gratitude for the unique opportunity the accelerator program presents to improve the health of Texans with diabetes.
The program provides financial support of up to $75,000 to implement CGM initiatives, allowing for activities such as forecasting the financial impact of policy changes and developing engagement plans with Medicaid recipients with diabetes.
According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), nearly 2.8 million Texans live with diabetes, with approximately 174,000 new cases diagnosed annually. In 2022, around 187,000 Texas Medicaid recipients had a primary diagnosis of diabetes, including 11,500 individuals aged 17 and younger. Diabetes contributes directly to $18.9 billion in medical costs annually in Texas, according to CDC data. Nationally, 37.3 million people, or 11.3% of the U.S. population, are affected by diabetes, the CDC reports.
The Center for Health Care Strategies is a policy design and implementation organization devoted to improving the lives of people receiving Medicaid. The center is funded by the Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust.
To more about HHSC at hhs.texas.gov. Texas residents can dial 2-1-1 to learn about programs and services.
