Presentation (CTI)

OBJECTIVES: Recent years have seen rapid developments in the available technologies for glucose monitoring, with associated increases in costs. There has been a rapid increase in utilisation and expenditure on continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) sensors in the publically funded healthcare system in Ireland since January 2021. Health technology management (HTM) strategies have been implemented to manage expenditure in this area while facilitating patient access. One strategy involved the implementation of a Health Service Executive-Medicines Management Programme (HSE-MMP) “Preferred CGM sensors” initiative. In July 2024, following a review of clinical and commercial aspects of the marketed CGM sensors, preferred CGM sensors were identified. This abstract aims to estimate the impact of the Preferred CGM sensors initiative on clinician choice of CGM sensor for individuals commencing on CGM.
METHODS: Pharmacy claims data for all CGM sensors included on the national reimbursement list were extracted from the national pharmacy claims database. A review of claims over the previous 6 months identified new users of CGM sensors i.e. individuals with no claims for CGM sensors over the previous 6 month period. The number of new users of CGM sensors each month was determined, then the proportions of those starting on a preferred CGM sensor were calculated.
RESULTS: Utilisation of preferred CGM sensors by new users increased monthly from 54% uptake in August 2024 to 66% uptake in November 2024, with a slight decline to 63% in December 2024. The number of individuals in receipt of CGM sensors in December 2024 was approximately 19,900, with monthly expenditure of €4.94 million.
CONCLUSIONS: The implementation of the Preferred CGM Sensors initiative by the HSE-MMP, has demonstrated an impact on the prescribing choice of CGM sensors by clinicians which has resulted in improved value for money in this area of expenditure while continuing to facilitate patient access to these technologies.