Blood Glucose Monitors (BGM) first arrived on the scene back in the 70’s. They have been used for years as a reliable method to check the blood glucose levels in patients living with Diabetes. Fast-forward about thirty years later and advances in technology gave us the Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM). Like everything else, technology just makes things better and Continuous Glucose Monitors have surpassed the ability of Blood Glucose Monitors. However, both continue to be used by patients and healthcare providers. It’s important to understand their differences first before deciding which monitoring system is the best option.
A Blood Glucose Meter tests the concentration of glucose in the blood through a fingerstick to draw blood. Then uses a test strip that interacts with a digital meter to identify blood glucose levels. 1 It is important to note that Blood Glucose Meter measures glucose levels at a particular moment in time and focuses on a single number.
A Continuous Glucose Monitor takes glucose readings continuously with a small electrode placed under the skin that is held in place by an adhesive. A transmitter attached to the electrode sends data to a separate unit or smart device and allows a patient to record and access valuable information and trends on a continual 24/7 basis. CGMs do not require fingersticks to measure glucose levels which makes monitoring easier and less painful.
Continuous Glucose Monitor Benefits
While Continuous Glucose Monitors exceed Blood Glucose Monitors in terms of technology, they haven’t completely replaced Blood Glucose Monitors. There are still times when patients need to test blood glucose levels with a fingerstick and for that reason they can work in tandem quite well when necessary. One of the biggest differences in monitors is that a Blood Glucose Meter measures blood glucose at a particular moment in time. That is helpful, but it doesn’t tell where blood glucose is going or what it’s going to do next and that makes it difficult to anticipate next steps. Within 15 minutes, a Continuous Glucose Monitor serves as a guide towards what’s next and helps to manage what’s coming.
The reason why Continuous Glucose Monitors have revolutionized the world of Diabetes management is because they give users control and power over the disease. CGMs collect data, analyze the information and forecast future trends providing peace of mind to everyone involved. Continuous Glucose Monitors take the guesswork and fear of the unknown out of the equation. That is why at Quest Health Solutions, we take pride in educating patients, healthcare providers, caregivers and Diabetes Care Specialists with knowledge that can change lives. CGMs offer a complete monitoring system that gives patients living with Diabetes the freedom they deserve while making it easier for healthcare providers to perform their job in the process.
Living with Diabetes is often compared to riding a roller coaster. Depending on the situation, levels can change throughout the day with many ups and downs. Glucose readings can be affected by a number of normal, everyday activities like eating, exercising and sleeping. The beauty of a Continuous Glucose Monitor is that it reports current glucose readings along with a trend arrow. The trend arrow tells users what direction glucose is heading and the speed in which it is moving so patients know what to do next. Here’s a brief description of what the trend arrows mean.
Our Continuous Glucose Monitor Pick – The Free Style Libre
Knowledge is power and data is key. Continuous Glucose Monitors, like the FreeStyle Libre 2 System, store data for up to 3 months which allows for better Diabetes management. This allows users to work with healthcare providers to set goals, track progress and identify if target ranges are above or below goals. The FreeStyle Libre 2 offers a LibreView account which can be accessed via a mobile app or by uploading compatible FreeStyle glucose devices directly into this cloud based platform. This gives patients the ability to connect and send results directly to healthcare providers so everyone is working towards the same management goals. This data can also be shared with up to ten followers. Patients with Diabetes who have a strong support system have more power over managing their outcomes.
Continuous Glucose Monitors Provide Extra Safety
One of the biggest pros of the Continuous Glucose Monitors is they give patients, healthcare providers, caregivers and loved ones, peace of mind. CGMs work 24/7 to keep patients safe and in control – even while sleeping. Alarms can be set to alert users when glucose is too high or too low with a preset tone, adjustable volume and vibration option. When in danger, this alarm will let patients and loved ones know something is wrong.
Learn more and take the next step
Continuous Glucose Monitors have transformed the lives of patients with Diabetes while helping healthcare providers treat and manage the disease in the process. To learn more about this valuable tool, contact Quest Health Solutions to find out your next step. We’re one of the leading suppliers of Continuous Glucose Monitoring Systems and currently licensed in 48 states. Our number one priority is the best interests of our patients, and we strive to be a one-stop shop for all CGM needs. We also offer free, CGM Fulfillment Solutions to Diabetes Care Specialists and take great pride in providing the tools, supplies, services and knowledge to educate patients and healthcare professionals. For more information, contact us at 1-877-888-7050 Ext. 1011 or email ben@questhealthsolutions.com .
1. (2020) Diatribe.org. Available at https://diatribe.org/blood-glucose-meters-and-strips#:~:text=Blood%20glucose%20meters%20(BGMs)%20measure,blood%20onto%20the%20test%20strip. Accessed on 7 October 2020.
2. (2020) Abbot Brochure. Accessed on 7 October 2020.