Gov. J.B. Pritzker joined patients and physicians at Lurie Children’s Hospital Wednesday morning to sign a bill aimed at making diabetes care more affordable in Illinois.
Senate Bill 2969 requires insurance and managed health plans to offer coverage for continuous glucose monitors (CGMs).
Glucose monitors are devices that help people like Talia Schinasi, a 9-year-old with Type I diabetes, track their blood sugar.
“It helps me because it's really easy, and I don't need to do finger pricks,” she said. “Which means using a needle to check my blood sugar many times a day.”
CGMs are worn on the body and automatically track blood glucose levels throughout the entire day, said Dr. Naomi Fogel, an attending physician at Lurie Children’s Hospital. The continuous monitors allow patients to use up-to-the-minute data as they assess their diet or need for insulin.
“Not only can patients and parents see their glucose levels at any time by glancing at a receiver device, smartphone or even smartwatch,” Dr. Fogel said, “Providers can also remotely access glucose data for timely insulin adjustments.”
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Pritzker said CGMs should provide parents some peace of mind.
“Parents will be able to send their children to soccer practice, slumber parties, and school field trips without worrying about an unknown dip in blood sugar,” added Pritzker. “Our emergency rooms will see fewer diabetic emergencies, saving our state and our patients money in the long run.”
About 1.3 million Illinoisans suffer from diabetes, and without insurance, CGMs can cost hundreds of dollars per month.
Gov. Pritzker said many residents have had to make the impossible choice between getting a CGM and putting food on the table.
“We won't accept that any longer,” the governor said. “No patient should go without the access to the medicines, devices, or procedures that they need to survive and thrive.”
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Diabetes disproportionately affects minority and low-income communities, which further exacerbates the equity gap caused by high-cost monitoring devices.
CDC data shows Black, Hispanic, and Native American Illinoisans are all at a higher risk of getting diabetes.
Pritzker’s administration said the new legislation ensures the most at-risk Illinoisans cannot be denied coverage that is needed to stay healthy and prevent further medical complications.
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