What are the benefits of Livongo's glucose meter and diabetes coaching service now being available directly to consumers?

Livongo has made its glucose meter and diabetes coaching service available directly to consumers for the first time. This means people with diabetes (PWDs) can now purchase the meter and services without needing to go through doctors, clinics, or employers. The service, called the Family Care Plan, costs $49.99 per month with a minimum three-month commitment. The Livongo meter is a sleek device with a color touchscreen that uses cellular connectivity to send results to a smartphone app. It also connects users with a certified diabetes educator (CDE) for 24/7 support via text, phone, or email. Users get unlimited test strips each month as part of their subscription. Additionally, Livongo has partnered with four major diabetes nonprofits—JDRF, American Diabetes Association, Beyond Type 1, and Diabetes Hands Foundation—to create a charitable donation program. For each member who signs up through dedicated microsites, Livongo will donate $3 per month to JDRF, Beyond Type 1, and Diabetes Hands Foundation. For the American Diabetes Association, Livongo will provide financial support for programs aimed at underserved diabetes communities. This initiative is expected to generate over $250,000 for these organizations. Livongo's program aims to make diabetes care more accessible and affordable, particularly for low-income and minority populations. The company hopes to inspire other digital health, medical device, and pharmaceutical companies to adopt similar charitable giving models.