If you are living with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) can help you make more informed treatment decisions that can lead to better glycemic control.
Top 11 Questions about CGM
1. What information will I get from Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM)?
CGM measures glucose in the tissue fluid throughout the day and night, about every five minutes, and sends the collected data to a receiver, phone, or insulin pump. This information can tell you how your glucose levels are trending, so you can make better decisions about your insulin dosing.
2. Can I set a ‘safe range’ for my blood glucose readings?
You can set thresholds for high and low numbers, and the CGM will alert you when it senses your glucose levels have moved out of the range you set.
3. Do I still have to test my blood sugar when I am using CGM?
With CGM, to calibrate the sensor, you will still have to test your blood sugar 2-4 times per day, depending on the CGM system you have.
4. What parts make up a CGM system?
A CGM system consists of three parts:
- A small under-the-skin sensor that measures glucose levels
- A transmitter that attaches to the sensor and transmits data
- A receiver that displays real-time glucose information
5. Do I need an insulin pump to use CGM?
No – although some CGM systems can tie in with a pump, CGM can be used independently.
6. What types of CGM systems are available right now?
Medtronic and Dexcom both offer CGM systems with different features.
7. How long can I wear CGM sensors before I need to change them?
You can wear sensors for 5-7 days, depending on which CGM system you are using.
8. Can I use the same insertion site for my insulin pump and CGM sensors?
No, CGM and an insulin pump require two different sites.
9. Can parents and other care team members access a patient’s CGM data?
Yes, certain models of CGM systems are compatible with the iPhone to allow care team members to remotely monitor CGM data via text alerts and/or an iPhone app. This can be especially helpful to parents who have children with diabetes, as they can monitor their blood sugar levels from afar (for example, the daughter is at school and her dad is at work).
10. Can I view CGM data on a smartwatch?
Yes, Dexcom G5 will display CGM on an Apple Watch. Visit Dexcom's Apple Watch page to learn more.
11. Is CGM covered by insurance?
Yes, CGM is covered by many insurance plans. Our Insulin Pump & CGM Therapy Team can help you obtain a prescription from your doctor, navigate the insurance verification process, and place your CGM system order. They also help customers with CGM supply refills.
You can reach George and Crystal on the Healthy Living Insulin Pump & CGM Therapy Team at (866)779-8512 (Option 2) and learn more about CGM and the systems we offer at myhlms.com/cgm.