Innovative Web Tool Assists Physicians in Managing Diabetes Coverage and Authorization Processes

A new web-based platform developed by Michigan's Collaborative for Type 2 Diabetes (MCT2D) offers physicians a practical solution to streamline the complex process of managing insurance coverage and prior authorization for diabetes treatments. Analyzing nearly 1,000 patient case summaries submitted by healthcare providers, the initiative revealed that physicians often face significant challenges in navigating insurance policies, which delays the initiation of necessary therapies. To address this issue, the team initially launched a comprehensive PDF guide in 2021, providing essential information on insurance processes. Building on this, they introduced an interactive online tool called Coverage Checker in 2024, co-designed with clinicians to enhance usability.

Coverage Checker provides care teams with real-time information about whether patients’ insurance plans cover guideline-recommended medical therapies, including continuous glucose monitors, and outlines specific steps required for prior authorization. The tool currently supports approximately 75% of Michigan's leading commercial, Medicare, and Medicaid plans, auto-fills clinical notes, and undergoes quarterly updates to maintain accuracy. An upcoming mobile app version is scheduled for release later in 2025.

The development of this tool aims to reduce administrative burdens, accelerate treatment initiation, and ultimately improve care for patients with diabetes. The initiative's findings and specifications were published in the "Annals of Family Medicine" journal, illustrating its potential to serve as a model for other regions seeking to optimize insurance navigation in healthcare.

More details and the full publication can be accessed through the journal's platform, emphasizing the importance of innovative digital tools in modern medical practice.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-web-based-tool-physicians-diabetes.html