Glucose Monitors (CGMs)
Track blood sugar without finger pricks.
What a CGM is
A small sensor (size of a quarter) sticks to your upper arm. A tiny wire under the skin reads glucose every minute. Phone app shows real-time numbers and trends. Lasts 10-15 days, then replace.
Top CGMs (2025)
- Dexcom G7 — $300/month retail. 10-day sensor. Best app and accuracy. Covered by Medicare for insulin users.
- Freestyle Libre 3 — $140/month retail. 14-day sensor. Smaller. Covered by Medicare for insulin users.
- Dexcom Stelo — $99/month. 15-day sensor. NO PRESCRIPTION NEEDED (FDA approved 2024). For non-insulin users.
- Libre Rio — $50/month (launching 2025). Same idea — over the counter.
Medicare coverage
- Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes WITH insulin → Dexcom or Libre fully covered. ~$0/month.
- Diabetes WITHOUT insulin → expanded coverage approved 2023. Often covered.
- Pre-diabetes or no diabetes → not covered. Pay out of pocket (Stelo).
- Ask doctor for a prescription. Pharmacy can bill Medicare.
Setup is simple
- Download the app (Dexcom, Libre, or Stelo).
- Click sensor onto upper arm — pre-loaded applicator. Painless.
- Scan/pair with phone. Numbers start in 30-60 minutes.
- Wear in shower, sleep, exercise. Adhesive lasts 10-15 days.
- Replace when app says.
Are CGMs worth it for non-diabetics?
For most healthy people — no. Health benefits unclear. Can cause unhealthy obsession with food. For pre-diabetics, people on weight-loss journeys, or those with strong family history of diabetes — informative for 30-90 days then stop. Talk to your doctor.