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Compare the sensors that are available currently. They each have pros and cons and have different qualities that which may be good for some people and bad for others.
Sensor Options
by Dexcom
Dexcom G6 has 3 parts - transmitter, sensor and receiver. You can view the data on your phone or a separate receiver. It also works with the Tandem insulin pump.
by Medtronic
The Medtronic Guardian sensor can be used alongside the 670G insulin pump or on its own using the Medtronic Guardian Connect system.
by Abbott
This sensor is the smallest one available right now. It is also the most affordable. FreeStyle Libre 2 can now alert you when you’re high or low and works with a smartphone or a reader.
by Senseonics
This sensor lasts the longest - 180 days. It has to be placed under the skin by your doctor. It has two parts, the implantable sensor and a transmitter that talks to your phone.
Alerts & Alarms
Dexcom G6
Medtronic Guardian
Libre 2
Eversense
Data View
Dexcom G6
Medtronic Guardian
Libre 2
Eversense
Fingersticks
Dexcom G6
Medtronic Guardian
Libre 2
Eversense
Length of Use
Dexcom G6
Medtronic Guardian
Libre 2
Eversense
Body Attachment
Dexcom G6
Medtronic Guardian
Libre 2
Eversense
Choosing a CGM may depend on cost - check out the estimated costs below.
The costs vary depending on your level of coverage and how your insurance classifies CGMs. Select an option below that matches your situation.
These are the prices you would pay if you walked into costco or a pharmacy or bought from the manufacturer, without insurance coverage.$315 - $400
$405 - $1000
You may need to help your doctor comprehend why this technology will be good for you and why you want it.
The main thing you need from your doctor is a prescription. You can share the links below with your doctor to help them understand the clinical benefits. To avoid delays, ask your doctor to make sure they write out important details in the prescription, such as the fact that you will use the device everyday.
Tips for talking with your doctor
Resources for your doctor
Once you have the prescription, the process of getting insurance approval can feel like you’re jumping through many hoops (sometimes you are), but it will be worth it.
There are two ways to get coverage. Some insurance companies have “Pharmacy Benefit” and some cover sensors through “Durable Medical Equipment (DME)”.
Contact the company you want a CGM from
CGM companies want your business and often have a helpful person on staff who understands the “ins and outs” of getting coverage. They will often walk you through the steps to confirm coverage. You will need your insurance card with your insurance policy number.
Pre-Authorization
Pre-authorization is the process that some insurance companies make you go through to get coverage for a sensor. The insurance or CGM company will let you know what is required if you need pre-authorization. Sometimes a letter of Medical Necessity may be required from your doctor, in addition to the prescription.
Preparation
Some insurance companies require your last month or more of blood sugar logs and/or A1c test results.
Wait time
Once you’ve submitted all your paperwork you may be able to move the process along by checking up every 1-2 weeks on the status. After a couple of weeks, it is absolutely justified to make a check-in call.
Where you get your supplies depends on how you get your supplies covered by insurance.
If your insurance covers sensors through “Durable Medical Equipment”, the best way to get your supplies it to call the sensor company. If you’re getting your supplies through “pharmacy benefit”, you will need your prescription sent to the pharmacy. Call them to make sure they have ordered the sensors and then go pick it up!
Dexcom G6
1-888-738-3646
Abbott Freestyle Libre
1-(855)-632-8658
Medtronic Guardian
1-800-633-8766
Eversense
1-844-736-7348
Pharmacies
Your local pharmacy has the ability to call to order sensors for you. Costco, Walmart, CVS and Krogers also do.
When you get your CGM, you can ask your clinic or the device company if they offer training sessions to people starting new diabetes devices.
Youtube has a lot of great videos of people who are inserting a sensor for the first time. You can also check out our wisdom pages to see some tips and tricks people have come up with through experienced use.