Many people use glucometers to check their sugars to help keep their diabetes under control. Over the past several years, the use of the Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) has increased. These devices allow for nearly moment-to-moment assessment of one’s sugars. These have many benefits, including NOT having to poke one’s fingers.
A barrier has been cost. Often insurance companies will only cover the devices for patients who use insulin.
However, many patients, some of which are PRE-diabetic or manage their sugars with pills or other medicines, desire to obtain the information that CGMs can provide – such as knowing what happens to their sugars after eating certain foods, when sleeping or exercising or when they are fasting.
There are tools available without a prescription for patients who are not on insulin and care to obtain this information. Two popular ones are Stelo and Lingo. People 18 years and older can buy one at almost any pharmacy without a prescription. They are relatively easy to set up and pair with most smartphones. The cost is about $99 for a month, but usually not covered by insurance.
Many people don’t need or want to use them for long periods. Often a month is enough time for people to learn how certain foods and behaviors impact their sugars.
Of course, discuss any information gleaned from the use of such devices with your doctor before you make any health decisions, especially changing medicines.
There are often coupons available and you can get them directly from the manufacturers. Also, if you have a Health Saving Account (HSA), it is likely that a CGM will be an approved purchase.
DR JOSHUA USEN 