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Veterans Can Now Get Dexcom’s G6 CGM at VA Pharmacies

By Sophie Skallerud and Hanna Gutow

The Dexcom G6 continuous glucose monitor will be fully covered for eligible veterans with type 1 or type 2 diabetes on rapid-acting insulin, and veterans can get it quickly and directly from a VA pharmacy

Dexcom’s G6 continuous glucose monitor (CGM) is now available at Veterans Affairs (VA) pharmacies in the United States. The cost of the G6 CGM will be fully covered by the VA for veterans with type 1 and type 2 diabetes who take rapid-acting insulin (read more on eligibility criteria below). Until now, veterans’ G6 CGM prescriptions were filled through the Durable Medical Equipment channel, and it often took veterans two to six weeks to get their CGM. Now, veterans with diabetes will be able to pick up their CGM from the pharmacy in two to three days.

Almost one in four veterans using VA healthcare has type 2 diabetes – this number is much higher than the national average, which is about one in ten adults. VA cares for more than 1.5 million people with type 2 diabetes, and diabetes is the leading cause of blindness, kidney disease, and amputation for this group. 

  • Veterans are eligible for CGM coverage from the VA if they: 

  • Have diabetes 

  • Take more than three insulin injections each day or use an insulin pump

  • Have to check their blood glucose levels four or more times per day

  • Can learn to use their CGM correctly and effectively

  • Agree to meet with their health care team at least every six months to evaluate how the CGM is being used to support their diabetes management

  • Are either at risk for low blood sugar, unable to keep their blood sugars in their target range,  unable to self-monitor blood glucose due to a disability or conditions, or have a job where a low blood sugar event could put them in danger

Do you know a veteran with diabetes? Share this article with them so that they can talk to their healthcare team about getting CGM. You can read more about the Dexcom G6 CGM here.