Medicare Open Enrollment: Will your CGM be covered next year?
If you use a CGM, then Medicare Open Enrollment may leave you wondering whether your coverage, costs, or CGM supplies could change. Here are the most important things to check before choosing your coverage for next year.
Medicare Open Enrollment
October 15 - December 7, 2026
Changes generally take effect January 1, 2027
First, you do not have to change your Medicare plan
Open Enrollment is your opportunity to review your current Medicare coverage and make a change if you choose.
If you are considering different coverage, remember that a change does not always mean switching insurance companies. Choosing a different plan with the same company can also change your network, costs or coverage requirements.
If you use a CGM, there are a few important things to check before you enroll.
Good question to ask the plan:
“Can I continue using Wellstart for my CGM supplies with this plan?”
COMMON QUESTIONS
Could changing Medicare plans affect my CGM coverage?
It can.
Medicare covers qualifying continuous glucose monitors and related supplies as durable medical equipment under Medicare Part B. If you are considering a Medicare Advantage plan, the suppliers you can use, your costs and other plan requirements may vary.
Before choosing a new plan, check how it covers the CGM and supplies you currently use.
Can I continue getting my CGM supplies from Wellstart?
If you are considering changing Medicare Advantage plans, check whether Wellstart participates with the plan you are considering.
Supplier networks and coverage requirements can differ from one plan to another. Checking before you enroll can help you understand what to expect when it is time for your next supply order.
Will Medicare still cover my CGM?
Medicare Part B covers qualifying CGMs and related supplies when Medicare’s coverage requirements are met.
Your exact coverage, out-of-pocket costs and any plan requirements depend on your individual situation and the coverage you choose.
If you are comparing plans, ask specifically about the CGM. Do not assume all diabetes supplies are handled the same way.
Ask these questions before choosing a plan:✓ Is my current CGM covered? ✓ Can I continue getting my supplies from Wellstart? ✓ Will my out-of-pocket cost change? ✓ Does the plan require prior authorization or other new documentation? (If yes, please inform Wellstart.) |
What else should I check before changing Medicare plans?
Your CGM supplies are important, but they are only one part of your health care. Before choosing a plan, also review the care you already use:
• Check whether your doctors and specialists participate with the plan.
• Check whether your prescriptions are covered.
• Review your expected costs, not just the monthly premium.
Starting with the doctors, medications, and supplies you already use can make comparing plans feel much more manageable.
What should I do if my coverage changes?
If your coverage changes for January (even if you stay with the same insurance company), make sure the companies that provide your regular medical supplies have your updated insurance information.
For Wellstart patients, letting us know about any coverage change helps us keep your information current and may help prevent delays with your next supply order.
Not sure where to start?
You do not have to compare every detail at once.
Make a list of the health care you already depend on:
• Your CGM and diabetes supplies
• Your doctors and specialists
• Your prescriptions
• Your medical supply companies
Then check how the plans you are considering handle each item.
When you receive your new insurance card, then contact Wellstart
Let us know if your coverage changes (including a new plan with your current insurance company) so we can update your account before your next supply order.
Contact Wellstart about an insurance change:
Call us 800-978-7599
Or update your insurance online at portal.wellstart.com (Scroll down to see more details)
Need help comparing Medicare coverage?
Medicare can help you review available coverage and understand your options. You can also contact your insurance plan directly with questions about its network, costs, and coverage requirements.
Wellstart does not provide Medicare plan selection or insurance advice. Coverage, network participation, authorization requirements and patient costs can vary by plan and individual circumstances. Review your plan documents or contact Medicare or your insurance plan for information about your specific coverage.
More details: How to update your insurance details online
Visit us online at portal.wellstart.com
(1) Log in
Provide a few details to login to your Wellstart account online
(2) Open the menu, select "My Account"
Click your name in the teal box to open the menu
(3) Update insurance
You can upload a photo or type the details
