Is CGM Really Necessary Despite Its Cost? A 25-Year Expert Insight

"Is CGM expensive... but who really needs it?" This is a question asked daily.

With 25 years of experience, I can say that if CGM is used for the right person, its impact on medication management is significant.

What is CGM?

CGM is a small sensor worn on the hand that measures sugar levels continuously for 24 hours and displays a graph on a mobile device. The most commonly used devices are Freestyle Libre, Libre Pro, and Dexcom G6–G7. The cost ranges from ₹2,500 to ₹4,000 for 10–14 days.

Who benefits the most from CGM? (Each point is based on hundreds of practical cases)

1) Patients with “normal” HBA1C but large daily sugar fluctuations CGM detects hidden spikes that never show up in HBA1C (ADA 2024).

2) Those who frequently experience hypoglycemia or have "unawareness" of hypoglycemia CGM alarms can be life-saving.

3) Patients on insulin Meal timing, dose adjustment, and carb counting are all data-driven.

4) Those aiming for weight loss or diabetes reversal CGM teaches which foods cause spikes and which exercises help control sugar.

5) Shift or night duty workers Disrupted sleep rhythms cause sugar pattern changes, which CGM reveals.

6) Those who find SMBG (finger pricking) painful CGM is much less painful and more informative.

7) Early-stage Type 2 diabetes patients CGM is the best teacher for learning lifestyle changes.

CGM vs SMBG (Self-Monitoring of Blood Glucose)

SMBG is like taking 2–4 photos a day. CGM is like a 24-hour continuous video, enabling more accurate treatment decisions.

Most importantly, just wearing CGM is not enough. Many patients use CGM but do not know how to interpret the data. Proper guidance from a Diabetes Educator and Doctor is essential for CGM to be truly beneficial.

Need proper guidance before or after CGM? Ask your questions in the comments.

Dr Ravindra L. Kulkarni, MD, DNB, FSCAI (Cardiology) Just For Hearts