A simple guide to
Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM)

CGMs show glucose trends in real time and can alert you when levels move outside your target range.
Appy Medical helps you qualify, get set up, and stay supplied.

What is a CGM

A Continuous Glucose Monitor is a small sensor that sits just under the skin and measures glucose throughout the day and night. Data is sent to a phone app or reader so you can see current numbers, trend arrows, and patterns.

Sensor

A tiny filament measures glucose in the fluid under the skin.

App/Receiver

View numbers in real time and review trends on your phone or reader.

Optional alerts

Set alerts for highs and lows to know when action may be needed.

Why people use CGMs

See glucose in real time

Watch how meals, activity, and medications affect your numbers.

Understand patterns

Trends and time-in-range help you and your care team fine-tune care.

Get optional alerts

Be notified for highs or lows—even overnight if enabled.

Share with caregivers

With permission, family or caregivers can follow along from their phones.

Less guesswork

Direction arrows and trend data can reduce uncertainty day-to-day.

Appy makes it easy

We handle coverage checks, paperwork, and shipping of supplies on 90 day intervals.

CGM vs. fingersticks
  • CGMs show trends and direction arrows; fingersticks are a single point in time.
  • Some CGMs reduce routine fingersticks; follow your clinician’s advice.
  • Confirm with a fingerstick if symptoms don’t match the reading or when advised.
What CGMs don’t do
  • They don’t replace medical judgment—always follow your care plan.
  • Readings can lag during fast changes; look at trends and symptoms together.
  • Sensor wear time and calibration needs vary by device.

Who typically qualifies?

Coverage depends on your health plan and medical history. Many plans cover CGMs for people with diabetes—often those using insulin or with documented hypoglycemia. Criteria differ by plan and state.

Clinician involvement

Your clinician provides chart notes, diagnosis, and a prescription.

Plan criteria

Plans may ask for A1C, testing history, medication list, or prior hypoglycemia.

We verify for you

Appy confirms eligibility and handles everything to get your order out the door.

How it works with Appy Medical

Verify benefits

Tell us about your insurance. We confirm coverage and next steps.

Coordinate care

We work with your clinician for chart notes and a prescription.

Place sensor

Follow device instructions to apply a small sensor at home or in clinic.

View & share

Use the app to see numbers; optionally share the data with others.

Devices we support

We work with leading CGM systems used by clinics nationwide. Device features and wear time vary. We’ll recommend options based on coverage and your clinician’s guidance.

Abbott Freestyle Libre 3+

  • Up to 15-day wear time.
  • Transmits glucose readings every minute.
  • About the size of two pennies stacked together.

Dexcom G7

  • Sensor warms up in only 30 minutes.
  • Approved for varying placements on the body.
  • Compatible with more insulin pumps.

Safety & everyday tips

Symptoms vs readings

If your symptoms don’t match the reading, follow your care plan and confirm with a fingerstick when advised.

Site care

Apply to clean, dry skin; rotate sites as directed. Contact your clinician if you notice irritation.

Calibration & warm-up

Some devices require a warm-up or calibration. Follow the device instructions and clinician guidance.

This page is for educational purposes and does not replace medical advice. Always follow your clinician’s instructions for diabetes management.

Frequently asked questions

Do CGMs replace fingersticks?

Many CGMs reduce routine fingersticks used for daily decisions. Follow your clinician’s advice and confirm with a fingerstick if symptoms don’t match or when advised.

Can my caregiver see my numbers?

Yes—sharing is optional. You can invite family or caregivers to follow along in their app when supported by your device.

How long does a sensor last?

Wear time varies by device. Your instructions will note the exact duration and replacement schedule.

Is it covered by insurance?

Coverage varies by plan and state. Appy will check your benefits and handle any required paperwork or prior authorizations.