Medtronic Vs Dexcom: Uses Comparison Advantages And User Experience
When it comes to Medtronic vs Dexcom, both are devices designed to monitor blood glucose levels.
To help you decide which is best, either Medtronic or Dexcom, well explain some of their main differences and how they both work to see which is the best one for your needs.
Here is the brief answer to get us started, then we will follow on with more details.
Medtronic vs Dexcom: Medtronic is a producer of medical supplies that provides an insulin pump and a glucose meter to those with diabetes. Dexcom is another medical supply producer that only offers a glucose meter. Medtronic provides an integrated solution of both pump and CGM, whereas Dexcom patients must use another insulin therapy method.
Medicare Members Are Eligible For A New Pump Every Five Years And In That Time Span There Can Be Many Advancements In Diabetes Technologies That Can Potentially Leave A User Behind On Newer Beneficial Improvements
As we mentioned, with the Tandem t:slim pump, a Medicare member can easily update the pump to keep it current with the latest technology. This will soon prove a great benefit as we anticipate Tandem to release their “Control iQ” feature within the year. This will allow the pump, when paired with the Dexcom G6 system, to autonomously deliver more insulin when blood glucose levels are high.
New Devices Are Coming But The Real Advances Will Involve Combinations
On an earnings call last month Abbott’s chief executive, Robert Ford, called the groups continuous glucose monitor Freestyle Libre 3 a very, very compelling product. It is only compelling in Europe, however: though it was CE marked in 2020, it has yet to gain US approval.
Abbotts rival Dexcom, whose latest glucose sensor was CE marked last month, is in the same situation. Developers in diabetes tech must innovate constantly just to keep up, and a new generation of devices is poised to enter the market. After that, the next step is even more crucial, as makers of sensors and insulin pumps seek to collaborate on creating closed-loop artificial pancreas systems.
Libre 3 is a key product launch for Abbott, and the company says its rollout in Europe is going well. But it exemplifies the time lag frequently seen between Europe and US approvals: the previous iteration took two and a half years to reach the US after it had already gained European CE mark. For Libre 3 the gap is 18 months and counting.
It is a similar story for Dexcom, which makes a blood sugar monitor called the G7. In the US these advanced glucose sensors are used by 80-90% of patients with type 1 diabetes, according to Stifel analysts the other patients use more basic gadgets that use regular fingerstick blood tests to measure sugar levels.
Combos
Read Also: Foods With Low Carbs For Diabetics
How Much Does It Cost
The total cost of any CGM system depends on supply needs and the type of insurance coverage the user has.
Start by checking your insurance plans coverage of CGM. This will include whether they cover purchase at your local pharmacy, require a mail-order distributor, or whether they classify CGM as durable medical equipment . DME may require a higher deductible before your insurance coverage kicks in.
Dexcom G6s CGM has traditionally been classified as DME for most insurance plans, but its now becoming more common for the Dexcom G6 to be available through pharmacies.
Not all insurance providers have yet embraced this shift, which may offer cost savings with only needing to pay a single flat copay.
Remember, there are two separate pieces of hardware needed to use the Dexcom G6: transmitter and sensors, both of which require a prescription and have different price tags attached.
If purchased at retail cost from Dexcom G6 with most commercial insurance plans, the costs are : a total of $237 for the G6 transmitter, that lasts 3 months, and a total of $349 for a three-pack of sensors .
At national pharmacy chains like CVS and Walgreens, cash prices vary but most locations queried by DiabetesMine quoted the price for a G6 transmitter at just under $300, and roughly $400 for the three-pack box of G6 sensors.
- G6 transmitter: a total of $146.04 each
- Three-pack box of G6 sensors: a total of $318.54
T: Slim X2 With Control
Trying to keep blood sugar in range can be stressful and time consuming. The t:slim X2 insulin pump with Control-IQ technology is an advanced hybrid closed-loop technology that makes it easier by predicting and helping to prevent highs and lows. Watch the video to learn more about how the technology works.
This product may be covered by your insurance. Check now or call us at 888-344-3434.
Control-IQ technology automatically adjusts insulin levels based on Dexcom G6 continuous glucose monitoring readings*.
CORRECTION BOLUSESControl-IQ technology can also deliver automatic correction boluses to help prevent hyperglycemia.
ACTIVITY SETTINGSControl-IQ technology includes optional settings for sleep and exercise activities that adjust treatment ranges for more control.
Read Also: What Is High Glucose Level
Dexcom Vs Medtronic: Are They The Same
Both Dexcom and Medtronic are famous for making medical equipment for diabetic patients. In most cases, their CGM system functions work more or less the same way. Both offer excellent devices that make it possible to keep track of and store data about the blood sugar level.
You can connect both devices to your phone. Both CGM systems come with a sensor and transmitter. Both CGM cannot give 100 percent accurate results since they only count the glucose level on interstitial fluid.
Reading all this might seem like Dexcom and Medtronic work the same. Then whats the point of reading the difference between the CGM 2020 products, right? You have come here to know which one will give you more utility.
Medtronic gives you not only a CGM system but also an insulin pump for accuracy and better monitoring. That alone can be a good option for a few.
But here is the thing, Dexcom has some merits that make it my personal favorite. The Dexcom sensor lasts longer, the transmitter lasts longer , and you wont need any calibrations except when required.
Dexcom And Medtronic Cgms To Be Covered By Adp For Ontarians Living With Diabetes
Continuous Glucose Monitoring has been one of the most exciting advancements in diabetes tech in recent years, enabling individuals to see their real-time glucose readings and trends. This technology can bring about increased security, flexibility, and ease for life with diabetesyet for many, CGM has continued to remain inaccessible, with most systems costing $3000-$6000 annually.
Recently across Canada, we have seen provincial healthcare plans improve financial access to CGM technology. Ontario is the latest province to provide financial coverage for CGM technology for people with Type 1 diabetes under the provinces Assistive Devices Program . As of March 14, 2022, Ontarians living with Type 1 diabetes will have the opportunity to receive ADP funding to put towards CGM technology systems. Eligibility for this funding is currently phrased as people living with Type 1 diabetes who are at risk of severe hypoglycemia or who are unable to recognize, or communicate about, symptoms of hypoglycemia. Individuals hoping to receive this funding must additionally be assessed by members of an ADP-approved Diabetes Education Program in Ontario. To find a list of approved Diabetes Education Programs in Ontario, click here.
Both Dexcom and Medtronic have commented on this exciting new funding opportunity:
You May Like: Fast Ways To Lower Blood Sugar
The Tandem T: Slim Is An Easy
Want to try it out for yourself? Tandem offers a free simulator app for Medicare members to install on iPhone or Android devices right now. This simulator app provides users with the opportunity to test the experience of using the pump along with the Dexcom G6 system before deciding to make the purchase.
The T: Slim X2 Pump Can Be Upgraded When New Technologies And Features Become Available
For example, Medicare members who qualify can currently access the Dexcom G5 CGM system, and we anticipate the more advanced Dexcom G6 system will be available to Medicare members on April 1st. If a patient is currently using the t:slim pump with a G5 system and upgrades to using the G6 system, all the patient will need to do is update his or her t:slim X2 pump with the latest software OR if they already have the t:slim pump with Basal IQ, they can integrate their Dexcom G6 after viewing a brief online training video. This ability to upgrade the insulin pump’s software is unique to Tandem systems.
Also Check: Nursing Care Plan For Type 2 Diabetes
Is Dexcom Better Than Medtronic
From my experience, I could indeed say that Dexcom gives me better performance. In the battle between Dexcom vs Medtronic, Dexcom got some additional pointers.
Yes, Medtronic has its insulin pump, and yes, many would prefer that. However, in terms of user-friendliness, I would suggest Dexcom. Now you may ask me Why.
It is because of calibrations. It means that you use a blood sugar meter to measure your glucose and then enter that value on the CGM. In Dexcom, you dont have to do that very often. But in my experience, I had to calibrate 2 or 3 times to get results.
And when you have to recharge the transmitter, you will have to wait a long while without using the device. I would instead just buy a new one.
T: Slim X2 With Basal
The Tandem Diabetes Care t:slim X2 Insulin Pump predicts and helps prevents lows with Basal-IQ Technology! It is the first touchscreen insulin pump that features a fresh new design and offers the most requested features. Touchscreen technology makes the t:slim pump amazingly easy to use. Its smartphone-style interface delivers the features you expect from a smart insulin pump.
This product may be covered by your insurance. Check now or call us at 888-344-3434.
Read Also: How To Use Insulin Pump
Who Has The Best Cgm
There are 3 common CGM systems currently on the market in the US: the Dexcom G6, the Freestyle Libre system from Abbott, and the Medtronic’s Guardian Sensor 3. The Dexcom G6 is the current CGM system from Dexcom. The sensor is applied to the skin every 10 days with an easy-to-use automatic applicator.
The Omnipod And Dexcom Finally Hook Up
The first tubeless Automated Insulin Delivery System, was just approved by the Food and Drug Administration .
The Omnipod 5 hybrid closed-loop system links with Dexcoms G6 Continuous Glucose Monitor and is now FDA approved for people with type 1 diabetes age six and older.
This anxiously awaited approval now means that there are 3 semi-automated closed-loop insulin delivery systems in the United States.
A unique feature of the Omnipod 5 system, is that it includes the first approved tubing free insulin delivery device that is paired with the Dexcom G6 continuous glucose monitor . The Omnipod holds up to 3 days of insulin and is worn directly on the body.
Omnipod 5 Users can monitor glucose trends and deliver insulin using a smartphone app or a separate controller device. Plus, this SmartAdjust technology automatically adjusts insulin to keep glucose on target and minimize hypo and hyperglycemic events.
Included in the app is a SmartBolus calculator that receives Dexcom CGM values every 5 minutes and automatically adjusts insulin based on predicted values for 60 minutes into the future and the individuals customized glucose targets.
Recommended Reading: Newborns With Low Blood Sugar
My Daughter Has Finally Decided To Give The Cgm A Try And The Dexcom Was Recommended My Daughter Uses A Medtronic 670g Insulin Pump And I Understand There Is A Medtronic Cgm That Will Communicate With This Pump To Automatically Adjust Insulin Dose Based Upon The Cgm Reading Its Also My Understanding That The Dexcom Would Not Provide This Feature Can You Please Give Me More Information On Why The Dexcom Would Have Been Recommended Over The Medtronic Is It Because Of The Calibration Effort Needed With The Medtronic Any Additional Information You Can Provide Would Be Helpful
Answer:
You ask an excellent question. There is certainly a benefit to using a CGM that links with a pump and insulin-adjustment algorithm . The 670G can raise/lower basal insulin automatically based on the sensors glucose trends. This can produce more time in-range , minimal hypoglycemia, and a pretty good overall average when it is used properly and consistently.
However, there is a price to pay when using the sensor that works with the 670G . Compared to the Dexcom G6, the Guardian 3 is somewhat less accurate, requires a much more complex insertion and taping process, uses a transmitter that must be recharged every 7 days , a sensor that must be changed every 7 days , no sharing capability with loved ones , occasional lost signals and calibration at least twice daily .
When weighing the benefit of the hybrid closed loop adjustments against the quality of the Dexcom G6, you might consider where you are coming from. If your daughters control is pretty good already, you would probably not benefit enough from the hybrid closed loop to make use of Medtronics sensor worthwhile. However, if her control is very poor, or she is plagued by frequent/severe hypoglycemia, using the Medtronic hybrid closed loop may provide enough benefit to make use of their sensor worthwhile.
Editor’s Comments:
Help With The Dawn Phenomenon
I donât get this anymore with an insulin pump, but I remember it well on insulin pens.
You know when you wake up and you have wonderful blood sugars and you think to yourself, this is going to be a wonderful day!… Then, out of no reason, or logic , your blood sugars just start to rise and youâre thinking WHY GOD WHY.
Well, that is called the dawn phenomenon. And itâs not your fault, itâs your bodies fault.
Thankfully, an insulin pump can help fix that because you can give specific doses of your choice at every single hour of the day, so you can simply raise your insulin during that period to avoid going high in the first place. This cannot be achieved via insulin pens.
Don’t Miss: Dario Blood Glucose Monitoring Kit
How Do I Choose An Insulin Pump
If youre thinking about using an insulin pump, talk to your doctor or diabetes educator. They can help you decide if an insulin pump is right for you and, if so, which type of pump would be best. Once youve decided to use an insulin pump, youll need to choose a pump thats right for you. There are many different brands and models of insulin pumps available, so its important to do your research before making a decision.
Considerations when choosing an insulin pump include:
Ease of use: Some pumps are easier to use than others. Be sure to get a demonstration of the pump before you buy it.
Cost: Insulin pumps are expensive, so be sure to find out what your insurance will cover.
Size and weight: Insulin pumps come in different sizes and weights. Consider how easy the pump will be to carry with you throughout the day.
Battery life: Insulin pumps run on batteries, so youll need to know how long the pump can run on a single charge.
Features: Insulin pumps have different features, such as the ability to give bolus doses of insulin at mealtimes or to suspend insulin delivery when blood sugar is low. Consider which features are most important to you.
What Pumps Does Dexcom Work With
The only available pump with Dexcom G6® CGM integration, the t:slim X2 insulin pump can be ordered with one of two different technologies to help manage type 1 diabetes.
Subsequently, What illness does Nick Jonas have?
Nick suffers from Type 1 diabetes. In 2018, he spoke about it in an Instagram post. 13 years ago today I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. The picture on the left is me a few weeks after my diagnosis.
Keeping this in consideration, Is dexcom G6 compatible with omnipod?
Dexcom and Insulet Announce Commercial Agreement to Integrate the Dexcom G6 and Future G7 CGM into Insulets Omnipod Horizon Automated Insulin Delivery System. SAN DIEGO & ACTON, Mass.
Beside above What phones is dexcom compatible with? Android
- Samsung Galaxy S8.
How much does a dexcom insulin pump cost?
About Dexcom G6
They work cooperatively with prescription medications or can be used alone to treat or test for certain conditions. Dexcom G6 is only available as a brand name drug. The lowest GoodRx price for the most common version of Dexcom G6 is around $347.29, 18% off the average retail price of $425.31.
Don’t Miss: Side Effects Of Lantus Insulin
Always Know Your Glucose Levels
The Dexcom G6 Continuous Glucose Monitoring System allows you to always know your glucose numbers with just a quick glance at your smart device* or receiver. It also allows you to share your data with up to 10 followers, and best of all – is the only CGM that integrates with the t:slim X2 insulin pump with Control-IQ® technology.
Smart devices sold separately*
What Is An Insulin Pump
Letâs start with the basics: what is an insulin pump?
Well, an insulin pump is a relatively small electronic device , that is easily attached to a belt, or your clothing such as trousers or a bra, so it can be as visible or as invisible as you want it to be!
Itâs attached to your body via an infusion set, which is basically a thin tube that your insulin is delivered through.
Also Check: Can Diabetes Cause Shortness Of Breath
Dexcom Vs Medtronicour Verdict
After reading our Dexcom vs Medtronic comparison, you might get to know your pick. Throughout the article, I tried to be as unbiased as possible. However, the only way to know which one will fix your issues is by trying!
To sum up, If you want a CGM with an excellent compatible insulin pump, then Medtronic is your best bet. But, if you want a perfect CGM system, then Dexcom is the one youre looking for.
Alright then, run your trial & dont forget to share your experience here.