Why are CGMs so expensive? - Explaining the high cost of CGMs.
Discover why Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) cost so much! Learn how advanced tech, precise manufacturing, and disposable sensors drive diabetes management costs. See how CGMs offer cost-effective health benefits.
Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) are valuable tools for managing diabetes, but high cost has made them prohibitive for consistent use. Let’s break down the main reasons in a simple way.
Advanced Technology and Research
Creating a CGM is not easy. It takes a lot of research to make sure the device is accurate, reliable, and safe. All the work in labs, clinical trials, and meeting strict regulations adds up to a big investment.
Manufacturing and Quality Control
CGMs are made up of tiny biochemical sensors and electronic parts. Producing these devices requires very precise manufacturing and strict quality checks, which also pushes the cost higher.
Disposable Components
One of the biggest factors is that the sensors need to be replaced every 7 to 14 days. This frequent need for new sensors keeps adding to the overall cost.
Now the next question is why do sensors last only 7 to 14 Days?
CGM sensors work by using enzymes, like glucose oxidase, to measure the sugar levels in the fluid just under your skin. You can find how CGMs work here. Over time, these enzymes break down, and proteins and cells start to build up on the sensor. This buildup can block the sensor from working correctly. That’s why they are only effective for about a week or two. Some newer sensors can last up to 180 days, but most still need frequent changes.
After all this the main question is whether a CGM Worth the Cost?
Even though CGMs add to the overall cost of managing diabetes, they are a smart investment in your health. Usage of CGMs has shown great improvements in reduction in HBA1C levels.
One way to see this is by looking at something called Quality-Adjusted Life Years (QALY). In simple terms, 1 QALY means 1 year of perfect health. Research shows that CGMs cost between $7,000 and $24,000 per QALY, which is much lower than the universally accepted threshold of around $100,000 per QALY. This means CGMs give you a lot of health benefits for the money you spend, and the cost is getting lower as technology improves.
In only about 10 years, the cost per QALY has reduced from $98K to the current cost.
With newer technologies and research going on in the world of continuous glucose monitoring, I am hopeful that this number will go down even further.
So, just download the Gurucose app from App Store and Play Store and connect your CGMs to a better health.
