JQ Medical marries service, tech

COTTONWOOD HEIGHTS, Utah – Technological advances in the diabetes marketplace have driven consolidation in the past few years, but JQ Medical says that its focus on putting the patient first gives the company a solid base to build out a national presence, says new CEO Matt Gallagher. 

“It isn’t the best soundbite, but it’s by providing the best service day in, day out,” said Gallagher, whose resume includes leadership positions at Breg and Apria Healthcare. “We take the care to reiterate the importance of adherence to therapy, from intake all the way through the processes and lifecycle of a particular patient. It does make a difference – we will hear from patients that they connect with and build relationships with the JQ team.” 

In addition to continuous glucose monitors, insulin pumps and diabetes supplies, JQ Medical offers ostomy and urological supplies and compression therapy products. It is currently licensed in 41 states with an eye toward expanding into additional markets, including Texas, Oklahoma, Idaho, Oregon and Washington state.  

Gallagher believes when you marry JQ Medical’s service with advances in technology, like CGMs, patients have a lot to gain. In February, CMS published a final LCD that modifies the coverage criteria for continuous glucose monitors. The DME industry is also supporting coverage of CGMs under the DME benefit, not just a pharmacy benefit.  

“We believe that going with the DME channel for service, convenience and, most importantly, from a therapy adherence and a patient compliance perspective, makes a huge difference in the usage of therapy which affects the outcomes,” said Gallagher. “What I message to the payer community is that, (paying for CGMs), ultimately, is a cost avoidance in that it benefits the patients and the membership and avoids a more expensive episode down the road.” 

Gallagher believes the industry hasn’t fully grasped the impact of tech developments in the market yet, paving the way for an exciting next few years. 

“I’m looking forward to seeing where it leads us in terms of therapy for the patients,” he said. “And, we believe that, while the market has consolidated, there’s a huge space for companies like JQ to compete with the bigger guys.”