Diabetes resupply: Preserve dual access

Q. Why does the path to a CGM matter, and should patient choice lead the way? 

A. The way a patient receives their CGM—through a pharmacy or a DME provider—can have a meaningful impact on adherence, outcomes and health care costs. That’s why it’s essential to protect patient and physician choice in determining the best delivery channel. 

Studies consistently show that the DME pathway supports stronger adherence and long-term success. One study in JMIR Diabetes found that patients receiving CGMs via the DME channel were more likely to restart therapy after a lapse than those using the pharmacy channel. Another study published in Clinical Diabetes reported 78% adherence through DME compared to 64% through pharmacy, along with a 35% reduction in total cost of care. 

This advantage is often attributed to the high-touch service model that DME providers offer. Education, proactive resupply and ongoing support are hallmarks of the DME experience—especially important for patients managing complex or chronic conditions.  

Pharmacy fulfillment, by contrast, emphasizes speed and familiarity. With fewer administrative requirements at the point of onboarding, pharmacies have the potential to offer a faster path to receiving the initial dispense of a medication or device. Patients and prescribers tend to lean this way when they have experience with using a pharmacy for existing needs and little to no experience interacting with a DME provider.  

There is a growing trend of payers limiting CGM access to pharmacy-only models. This shift risks eliminating essential support services for vulnerable populations—including Medicaid beneficiaries—who often rely on the comprehensive care coordination offered by DME providers. Organizations like AAHomecare are actively engaging with state-level stakeholders to preserve dual access.  

Maintaining both pathways is essential. When patients and prescribers can choose the model that best fits their needs, outcomes improve, costs decrease and access to care becomes more equitable. CGM success depends on more than just technology—it depends on the support behind it. 

Matt Edwards is CEO of GEMCO Medical. Reach him at marketing@gemcorehealth.com.