FAQ: What is a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM)?

Overview: 

This article provides an overview of what a CGM is, the types of CGMs that Levels supports, and how they are prescribed.

What is a continuous glucose monitor?

A continuous glucose monitor (CGM) measures glucose with a thread-like filament that sits under the skin. With a CGM, your blood glucose is measured based on  interstitial glucose - which is the fluid between skin cells. 

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices have traditionally been used to replace finger-prick blood glucose testing for detecting trends and tracking patterns in glucose levels in persons with diabetes. The systems are intended for single patient use and require a prescription. 

Listen to Dr. Casey means explain what a CGM is:

What type of CGMs does Levels support?

Levels supports the FreeStyle Libre CGM and the Dexcom G6 CGM

How are these devices prescribed?

The Dexcom G6 CGM does not require a prescription through Levels. The FreeStyle Libre CGM is prescribed by our partner physicians to qualifying Levels members for general health information and wellness purposes, to observe trends and relationships between diet and lifestyle choices and glucose levels. CGMs acquired through a Levels are not intended for, and should not be used for the observation or treatment of any medical condition, disease, or diagnosis, including diabetes. 

Further reading:

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