CGM Myth-Busting: What Every HCP Should Know

Truth: Most current CGMs are factory-calibrated and do not routinely require fingersticks — but fingersticks may still be needed in certain situations:

• When symptoms don’t match readings
• During rapid glucose changes
• If the CGM displays an error or signal loss

Clinical Tip: Advise patients to confirm with a meter if in doubt, especially when hypoglycemia is suspected.

Truth: CGMs vary significantly in terms of:

• Wear time (7, 10, or 14 days)
• Accuracy (measured by MARD)
• Features (e.g., alarms, real-time data, smartphone integration)
• Prescription pathway (DME vs. pharmacy)

Clinical Tip: Choose a device based on the patient’s lifestyle, tech comfort, and coverage.

Truth: CGMs measure interstitial fluid glucose, not blood glucose, and readings typically lag behind blood glucose by 5–10 minutes.

Clinical Tip: Be cautious when interpreting CGM data during rapid BG changes (e.g., post-exercise, insulin correction).

Truth: Alarms are one of the most powerful and life-saving features of CGM technology. They alert patients to real-time highs and lows often before symptoms appear, allowing for earlier interventions that can prevent severe hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia. For many individuals, especially those with impaired awareness or at night, alarms can be the difference between safety and serious complications.

Clinical Tip: While alarms are vital, personalization is key. Work with your patient to set thresholds and notification types that match their goals and lifestyle, reducing unnecessary interruptions while maintaining safety.

Truth: While CGM has long been the standard of care in T1D, it's increasingly valuable for a broader range of individuals, including those with:

• Type 2 Diabetes on basal-bolus or basal-only insulin
• Type 2 Diabetes not on insulin but experiencing hypoglycemia or high variability
• Gestational Diabetes, especially when insulin-treated
• Cystic Fibrosis-Related Diabetes
• Post-transplant diabetes, pancreatic insufficiency, and other rarer forms

Clinical Tip: Many guidelines and insurers now support CGM for these populations. Tailor device choice and education to individual needs and goals.

Truth: With proper onboarding, most patients find CGM empowering. Time-in-range visuals and trend arrows are intuitive and actionable.

Clinical Tip: Start simple — focus on one or two key data points, like overnight lows or post-meal spikes.

Truth: Today’s CGMs are easier than ever to use — many require no calibration, can be scanned with a phone, and provide automatic insights.

Clinical Tip: A short demo and basic handout can make CGM accessible to most patients, regardless of tech confidence.

Truth: CGM systems have become more affordable and are increasingly covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and commercial insurance including for many people with T2D. Plus, cost-effectiveness studies show CGM use reduces hospitalizations, improves A1c, and boosts quality of life.

Plus, the new biosensors (for those without T1D), don't require a prescription and can be ordered directly from the manufacturers (although currently, these are not covered by insurance).

Clinical Tip: Know your local coverage policies and access programs (e.g., manufacturer copay cards, patient assistance) to help patients navigate affordability.

Truth: While CGM empowers patients with real-time data, it doesn't replace clinical interpretation or individualized care planning. In fact, the best outcomes happen when HCPs regularly review CGM data with the patient.

Clinical Tip: Schedule regular CGM data reviews or integrate them into routine visits to reinforce shared decision-making.

Truth: CGM data can also be used for behavioral insights showing how food choices, activity, stress, and sleep affect glucose. This is especially valuable for patients not on insulin, helping them visualize cause and effect and build healthier habits.

Clinical Tip: Encourage non-insulin users to review patterns like post-meal spikes or overnight lows to guide behavior change.