HAP selected as only Michigan health plan in $4.2 million national initiative to advance diabetes research and expand CGM access

TROY, Mich. — Health Alliance Plan (HAP) was selected to participate in a $4.2 million diabetes research initiative led by the Alliance of Community Health Plans (ACHP) and supported by The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust. HAP is the only Michigan health plan and one of only four plans nationwide participating in this grant initiative.

The 36-month effort aims to reduce barriers to continuous glucose monitor (CGM) use for people living with insulin-requiring diabetes. CGMs track glucose levels throughout the day and reduce reliance on finger sticks while providing real-time insights. Research shows that CGM use benefits people with Type 1 diabetes and people with Type 2 diabetes who use insulin. These benefits include improved outcomes and fewer hospitalizations.

“This work reflects something fundamental: our commitment to advancing diabetes care in ways that are practical, people-centered and meaningful in everyday life,” said Margaret Anderson, president of HAP. “By strengthening care delivery, expanding access to timely information and listening closely to patients’ experiences, we help people manage their health with greater confidence while also improving outcomes.”

Building on previous work supported by the Helmsley Charitable Trust, HAP has launched two grant-funded initiatives to advance CGM access.

The first is the development of a CGM Playbook for Nonprofit Healthcare Plans. HAP clinical teams will create a comprehensive guide that outlines best practices in diabetes management, access, education and care delivery. The retrospective project will be published and shared nationally to help other health plans strengthen their diabetes programs. The playbook also highlights ways for providers to receive timely and accurate CGM data without the delays, gaps or administrative burden that often occur when information flows through outside vendors.

The second is supporting a Patient-Driven Bundled Payment Model initiative. Launching in April, this active pilot elevates the patient's voice in shaping how CGMs and diabetes education are accessed. By centering patient experience, HAP aims to improve diabetes management through enhanced support, simplified and lower costs, and greater empowerment for individuals managing their diabetes. 

"One out of every four health care dollars spent in the United States goes toward diabetes care, and CGMs are powerful tools to improve lives while saving money," said ACHP President and CEO Ceci Connolly.

The initiatives will develop proof-of-concept strategies that other health plans can use to expand CGM access and support sustained use. They will also generate real-world evidence on clinical outcomes, patient journeys and financial viability, with the goal of informing long-term coverage policies and reducing disparities.

The overarching grant to ACHP will run through September 2028.