A Closer Look at the Dexcom G6

Tired of traditional glucometers and the painful finger pricks associated with them? If so, it might be time for you to think about switching to a continuous glucose monitor, or CGM. These devices allow people with diabetes to keep an eye on their blood sugar levels without having to take blood samples on a regular basis. We’d say CGMs are the future of diabetes management, but that’s not the case – after all, they’re on the market right now!

Today, we’ll take a closer look at one of our best-selling CGMs at US MED – the Dexcom G6 CGM. If you’re thinking about making the switch from a glucometer, you can’t go wrong by upgrading to this. With the latest version of its CGM system, Dexcom has created something that will become an indispensable part of your life as soon as you start using it – and not just because you won’t have to worry about needles anymore. (Admittedly, though, that is a major factor.)

Dexcom: A Leader In CGM Systems

At this point, you may be wondering: “What is Dexcom, anyway?” Based in San Diego, Dexcom is a company that has been working toward making CGM systems a reality since it was founded in 1999. After years of research and development, Dexcom became the second company to get a CGM approved by the FDA in 2006, and it’s continued to be an industry leader ever since.

As of (G6 launched in 2018) December 2020, Dexcom’s main product is the latest incarnation of its system, officially known as the Dexcom G6 CGM System. While using this system, patients can monitor their blood glucose levels by wearing a thin, water-resistant sensor. The system also allows people with diabetes to see their data by using an app on their smart devices.

How Does The Dexcom G6 CGM Work?

Here’s how to use Dexcom G6: When you start using the system, you’ll apply a sensor with a one-button, easy-to-use applicator. That sensor will keep track of your blood glucose levels, providing you with up to 288 updates each day. You’ll be able to check those updates on your smart device, which can also notify you if your blood sugar is getting too high or low. It’s that easy!

With this much blood glucose information at your fingertips, you generally won’t need to get blood glucose information from your fingertips – that is to say, the Dexcom G6 CGM can significantly decrease the need for finger pricks and blood samples. However, there are some times where you might still need to do a quick finger prick test:

• If your diabetes symptoms don’t line up with sensor readings 
• If you believe your readings aren’t accurate 
• To confirm any high or low sensor readings 

Outside of these situations, however, the Dexcom G6 CGM should make your life finger prick-free! (If reading that already feels like a relief, this may very well be the system for you.)

People planning to use this system don’t need to avoid acetaminophen, either. Dexcom G6 blocks significant interference from this drug if you’re taking up to 1,000 mg every six hours – you’ll be able to get the pain relief you need without putting the accuracy of your glucose readings into question.

One last thing before we move on: if you’re concerned about how long the Dexcom G6 transmitter lasts, don’t be. The transmitter will last 3 months. The sensors used by the system can be used for 10 days before you’ll need to replace them.

Enhance Your Life With A CGM System

Systems like the Dexcom G6 CGM can essentially make finger pricks a thing of the past – but that’s not all they can do. Thanks to the constant updates on your blood sugar level provided by these systems, you’ll find it easier than ever to stay in range and lower your A1C.

The app at the heart of Dexcom G6 can also help you stay aware of how your blood glucose levels are trending in the long term. With that information, it’ll be a cinch for you to analyze and improve your diet and/or exercise regimen! Better yet, those changes will make it even less difficult for you to manage your glucose levels. In addition, with the Dexcom Clarity Portal, you can share all of your data from your CGM with your physician for better management. 

Are your loved ones always asking for updates on your health? This system can help improve their lives, too. Dexcom makes it easy for its users to send information about their glucose levels to friends and family – with the Dexcom G6 CGM, you can share this data with up to 10 followers.

How Much Is Dexcom G6?

On its own, the Dexcom G6 CGM is sold by US MED at a discounted rate of $500 cash/credit. However, the system may be covered by your insurance. According to Dexcom, Medicare does cover Dexcom G6 for certain patients that meet the coverage criteria – specifically, patients that have Type I or Type II diabetes and are actively working to manage their insulin.

If you’re still wondering whether or not your insurance will cover the Dexcom G6 CGM, it’s easy to find out. At US MED, we can work with you to determine what your insurance does and does not cover – just request your free benefits check by visiting our page for new customers. Alternatively, you can give us a call at 877-840-8218.

Take The First Step Today

By now, there’s a good chance you’ve heard enough – and you may even be ready to try the Dexcom G6 CGM for yourself. If that’s the case, we’re happy to hear it! We think systems like these can go a long way when it comes to diabetes management, and we hope that’ll be the case for you.

To learn more about the continuous glucose monitors and related accessories sold by US MED, visit our page on CGMs. If you’re still thinking about buying a traditional glucometer, you can find these (and so much more) on our diabetes testing supplies page.