Continuous Glucose Monitoring Impact and Implications of Real-World Evidence: Past, Present, and Future

Randomized controlled trials, which are considered the highest level of scientific evidence, have shown significant glycemic benefits associated with use of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in individuals with diabetes who are treated with intensive insulin regimens. However, numerous prospective, retrospective, and observational studies have investigated the impact of CGM in various diabetes populations treated with nonintensive therapies. Results from these studies have contributed to changes in payer coverage, prescriber behaviors, and expanding use of CGM. This article reviews findings from recent real-world studies, highlights the key lessons learned from these studies, and discusses how we need to move forward in increasing utilization of and access to CGM among all diabetes patients who would benefit from this technology.

Automated summary

Randomized controlled trials show the benefits of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in intensive insulin regimens for diabetes patients. Other studies have investigated CGM's impact on nonintensive therapies, leading to changes in payer coverage and expanding use. This article reviews recent real-world studies, highlights key lessons, and discusses increasing access to CGM for all diabetes patients.