There is no doubt that Continuous Glucose Monitors have dramatically changed and improved the lives of those living with diabetes.
With so many choices on the market today it’s difficult to know which Continuous Glucose Monitor to choose.
Like any decision, it requires time, research and knowledge.
At Quest Health Solutions, we know that time is limited and dealing with diabetes requires a great deal of effort which is why we’ve taken the time to do the research for you.
Why the FreeStyle Libre is Our First Choice in Continuous Glucose Monitoring
The three most popular monitoring systems on the market today are the Dexcom, Medtronic, and the Freestyle Libre. There are similarities among all devices, but here’s a quick review of the factors that set them apart:
- ● Insertion/Ease of Use – The Freestyle Libre has the easiest process and requires only a single-step insertion. The Dexcom has a two-step process that involves a complicated taping procedure. Medtronic devices require a multi-step process that also involves taping of both the sensor and transmitter.
- ● Wear Time – The Freestyle Libre is the longest lasting self-applied sensor on the market today and can be worn for 14 days. Dexcom’s sensor wear time is 7 days and Medtronic’s is 6 days.
- ● Calibration – The Freestyle Libre does not require calibration. Dexcom requires calibration twice daily and Medtronic requires calibration 3 to 4 times daily.
- ● Care Between Use – The Freestyle Libre is easy to use and maintain. It has a disposable sensor and transmitter. The transmitter in the Dexcom and Medtronic must be cleaned and disinfected after each use. The Dexcom also requires that the receiver be cleaned and disinfected as well.
- ● Insertion site – The Freestyle Libre is placed on the back of the upper arm. The sensor is the size of two stacked quarters and easily accessible through clothing. Both Dexcom and Medtronic sensors are placed on the abdomen.
- ● Cost – Of the 3 devices, the Freestyle is the most affordable especially for patients responsible for coinsurance. The cost of the sensor scanner is approximately $60 with each sensor costing around $40 each.
The Freestyle Libre is our top choice because it’s convenient, easy to use and provides patients more freedom and gives healthcare providers more control. Each Freestyle Libre scan provides a current glucose reading, a trend arrow and an 8-hour history.
The Freestyle Libre gives patients and healthcare providers an easy way to track daily patterns, ranges and targets and can receive alerts when they are trending high or low. Using the Freestyle Libre in conjunction with the LibreView downloadable app allows patients to retrieve readings right from their smart device. Data can be shared with healthcare providers and up to ten followers which helps patients with the overall management of Diabetes and helps to keep glucose levels under control.
More Facts About the FreeStyle Libre
- ● The FreeStyle Libre 14 day is the longest-lasting, self-applied Continuous Glucose Sensing Technology available on the market today.
- ● “The FreeStyle Libre system is used by more than 800,000 people with diabetes globally and is the world’s #1 CGM System.”
- ● Most major health insurance plans provide some level of coverage for CGMs when prescribed by a qualifying physician. Some of the major insurance companies that cover Continuous Glucose Monitors include Cigna, United Healthcare, Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Aetna, Humana, and Kaiser.
- ● “As of October 2020, all CGM devices on the market with the exception of those from Medtronic Diabetes are covered by Medicare. These include the Dexcom G6, the Abbot FreeStyle Libre 1 and 2, and the implantable Eversense CGM from Senseonics.”
Where to Find the FreeStyle Libre
The Freestyle Libre is becoming more readily available through various channels. The qualifying process, however, can be daunting for both the patient and provider. At Quest Health Solutions, we can guide you through the entire process. We are not only one of the leading suppliers of Continuous Glucose Monitors in the market today, but we also offer CGM Fulfillment Solutions. Our experienced team will handle all of the paperwork, insurance verification, billing and authorization calls so that healthcare providers do what they do best – treat patients! To learn more about the Freestyle Libre and our CGM Fulfillment Solutions, contact Quest Health Solutions at 1-877-888-7050 Ext. 1011 or email ben@questhealthsolutions.com or schedule an appointment today.
1. Abbott Press Release available at Click Here accessed on 20 November 2021.
2. (2021) Healthline. Medicare Loosening Restrictions for Continuous Glucose Monitor Coverage. Available at Click Here accessed on 20 November 2021.
3. Healthline. What is a CGM. Available at Click Here accessed on 20 November 2021.