Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs)
Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) are devices that help people with diabetes better manage their blood sugar levels. CGMs automatically check glucose levels at any time of the day or night, allowing users to see real-time readings and observe patterns over time.
Since CGMs provide continuous tracking, both you and your healthcare provider can use the collected data to make more informed decisions about diet, exercise, and treatment options.
How Does Continuous Glucose Monitoring Work?
Before using a CGM, a small sensor must be inserted under the skin, typically on the arm or abdomen. The sensor, which is attached using a small needle or adhesive patch, is usually thin, white, and button-shaped. Once placed, the sensor connects to an app on your smartphone or another device to deliver immediate blood sugar readings.
The CGM measures glucose levels in the interstitial fluid—the fluid between body cells—testing levels every few minutes and transmitting the data wirelessly. Most people use their smartphones, but handheld receivers and insulin pumps can also link to the CGM.
Besides real-time updates, the CGM can store data for long-term tracking, helping users and healthcare providers spot trends and make necessary adjustments to treatment, lifestyle, or diet.
Older CGMs sometimes require users to perform finger-prick tests twice daily to ensure accuracy. Users also need to replace the sensor approximately every two weeks. Fortunately, newer CGMs have eliminated the need for finger pricks.
Who Qualifies for a CGM?
Most CGM users have type 1 diabetes, but people with type 2 diabetes can also benefit, particularly those with a history of hypoglycemia. To use a CGM, you must get a prescription from a healthcare provider, who can also help select the best model based on your needs.
The length of CGM use can vary. Some people use it temporarily to adjust their treatment plans, while others continue using it long-term for ongoing diabetes management.
You may qualify for a CGM if you:
- Need daily insulin injections
- Struggle with blood sugar management
- Experience hypoglycemia unawareness
Coverage varies: Medicare typically covers CGMs for insulin users and those with a history of hypoglycemia, while Medicaid has specific requirements related to insulin therapy and injection frequency.
If you're interested in a CGM, consult your healthcare provider and insurance company to explore your options.
Benefits
Using a CGM provides several advantages, including:
Preventing Hypoglycemia or Hyperglycemia
CGMs can alert users when blood sugar levels become too low or too high. Hypoglycemia can cause symptoms like fainting, shaking, and sweating and, in severe cases, may lead to coma or death. Hyperglycemia can trigger serious complications like diabetic ketoacidosis. Immediate alerts help users take corrective action quickly.
Seeing the Bigger Picture
Unlike finger-prick tests that provide a single reading, CGMs offer continuous monitoring. This allows users to see patterns and trends in their blood sugar levels, helping them manage diabetes more effectively.
Needing Fewer Finger Pricks
Older CGMs required occasional calibration through finger-prick tests, while newer models have removed this requirement entirely. This reduces the need for frequent finger sticks and allows for uninterrupted sleep.
Better Condition Management
Having real-time and historical blood sugar data enables users to adjust their diet, exercise routines, and medication more precisely. This leads to fewer emergencies and reduces the risk of long-term diabetes-related complications.
Limitations
One of the main challenges with CGMs is cost. The devices can be expensive, and not all insurance plans cover them. Medicaid has strict eligibility requirements, and paying out-of-pocket can be difficult.
Initial CGM kits can cost over $1,000, and ongoing costs for new sensors, transmitters, and supplies can add up to several thousand dollars annually.
When to Contact a Healthcare Provider
If you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes and think a CGM could help you, talk to your healthcare provider. They can prescribe the device if it’s medically necessary, which may help with insurance coverage.
It’s especially important to seek advice if you have difficulty recognizing the symptoms of low blood sugar or struggle with managing your glucose levels. Your provider can guide you through the options and help you integrate a CGM into your diabetes care plan.
A Quick Review
Continuous glucose monitors help people with diabetes track blood sugar levels throughout the day. With advances in technology, CGMs are becoming more accurate and user-friendly. By providing real-time data and glucose trends, these devices offer a powerful tool to help users take control of their diabetes management.
