I use a continuous glucose monitor for my diabetes that connects to my smartphone. Will Medicare cover this technology for someone with my condition?

Question

Steven Bleicher · Accepted Answer

Yes. “DME” stands for Durable Medical Equipment. A glucose monitor is paid for by most Medicare Supplements (aka, a Medigap plan). Go to medicare.gov and put DME in the horizontal search box. You will find that a Medigap covers over 60,000 treatments while an Advantage has a high deductible which, depending on the company, will potentially provide partial coverage for the monitor.

Answered by Steven Bleicher on April 10, 2025

Broker Licensed in AZ

Answered by Steven Bleicher Medicare Insurance Agent

Gary Church · Answer

A continuous glucose monitor for my diabetes that connects to my smartphone. Will Medicare cover this technology for someone with my condition? As of now, Medicare does not cover glucose metering devices. There is a possibility that a Medicare Advantage plan could. I would recommend finding a licensed agent or broker to review your options. AEP starts on October 15th and runs until December 7. Good luck!

Answered by Gary Church on July 22, 2025

Broker Licensed in Ca, AZ, NV & TX

Answered by Gary Church Medicare Insurance Agent

Mark Bilgere · Answer

Hey there, so I got another question today, and it is pretty pertinent because it is actually something that I use and I want to share the answer with you because I think a lot of people are going through this. So the question is, I use a continuous glucose monitor, a CGM, for my diabetes that connects to my smartphone. Will Medicare cover this technology for someone with my condition?

Well, like most things, Medicare maybe is the answer. So Medicare will cover a CGM for two reasons. One, you're on insulin and the doctor prescribes it, but you have to be on insulin. So if you're pre-diabetic or your numbers are real low, just a little over six, and you're not on insulin yet, then Medicare is not going to pay for it. You can still get them because now they have them over the counter. And that's how I used to get them when I'm not on Medicare. But I use one, and they're pretty affordable. But they do have a cost. If you're not on insulin, then you can't get it for having high blood glucose.

The only other reason Medicare will pay for it is if you have chronic hypoglycemia, like seniors, which is chronically low blood sugar. And then it's prescribed, and your doctor can do that for you. But over-the-counter ones that you see now, because you're just trying to get ahead of it and stay off insulin, which is the best idea in the world, Medicare doesn't cover those yet. You have to actually be on insulin and have it prescribed or be hypoglycemic and have it prescribed by your doctor.

So for other questions, I keep checking back. I answer them as soon as I get them. Thanks!

Terri Reagin · Answer

It depends on the plan and the brand you are using. Most carriers cover those glucose monitors but some may have preferred branding that they require.

Mark Maliwauki · Answer

Yes, Medicare covers FDA-approved continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) and related supplies as durable medical equipment (DME) under Part B. If you use a smartphone for display, you must still use a, durable receiver (or receiver-compatible system) at least some of the time to qualify. Coverage requires a doctor’s prescription confirming you have diabetes, use insulin, or have a history of problematic hypoglycemia, and require frequent monitoring.

Answered by Mark Maliwauki on December 19, 2025

Broker Licensed in ID, AZ, CA & 13 other states

Answered by Mark Maliwauki Medicare Insurance Agent

Bill Wheeler · Answer

Yes, Medicare typically covers continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) that connect to smartphones under your part B ( durable
equipment).

Nikki Rowland · Answer

Yes, Medicare does cover continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) for eligible beneficiaries—including those that connect to smartphones—as long as certain criteria are met.

Each plan type covers them differently.

Richard Moreno · Answer

Yes, Medicare will cover continuous glucose monitors that connects to smartphones and sap long as they meet certain criteria.

Donnie Vermillion · Answer

After Part B deductible you pay 20 % , if you are eligible. If you have diabetes Medicare may cover a continuous glucose monitor and supplies if your doctor prescribes them for you. 

If you take insulin or have a history of problems with Hypoglycemia low blood sugar. Also if your healthcare provider has decided that you or your caregiver have enough training to use a continuous glucose monitor as prescribed.

Brian Cronin · Answer

Yes, Medicare may cover a continuous glucose monitor that connects to your smartphone, but you have to meet certain criteria. Under Medicare Part B, CGMs are covered as durable medical equipment if you have diabetes and your doctor prescribes the device because you use insulin or have a history of significant low blood sugar episodes. The doctor must confirm you know how to use the device and typically needs to see you for diabetes management visits at least every six months. If you qualify, Medicare usually pays about 80% of the approved cost after the Part B deductible, and many modern systems can send your glucose readings directly to a smartphone app.

Answered by Brian Cronin on March 28, 2026

Broker Licensed in NH & ME

Answered by Brian Cronin Medicare Insurance Agent

Dustin Haffner · Answer

Yes — Medicare does cover continuous glucose monitors for people with diabetes if certain eligibility criteria are met. Example would be checking you blood sugar 4 or more times a day. So you can use a compatible smartphone to view and track data, but Medicare may require you to have a stand-alone receiver device in addition to the smartphone to meet coverage rules.

Answered by Dustin Haffner on January 12, 2026

Broker Licensed in OK, AR, KS & MO

Answered by Dustin Haffner Medicare Insurance Agent

Greg Milliser · Answer

Yes, Medicare covers continuous glucose monitors under Part D ( Drug Coverage) of Medicare. In order for you to receive the coverage you must have a stand-alone drug plan or a Medicare Advantage plan that includes prescription drug coverage.

Answered by Greg Milliser on September 2, 2025

Broker Licensed in MO, AR, IN, KS, OH & OK

Answered by Greg Milliser Medicare Insurance Agent

Brendan Scarffe · Answer

Yes, these are covered under your Medicare part B benefit, however, you may still be responsible for 20% of the cost, depending on the Medigap or Part C plan you choose. Additionally, you may need to get your doctor's approval.

Answered by Brendan Scarffe on January 21, 2026

Broker Licensed in MO, AL, AR & 10 other states

Answered by Brendan Scarffe Medicare Insurance Agent

Marc Carr · Answer

Yes, there are Medi Gap plans that will cover this type of technology.  There are Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) that will cover this with a copay ranging from $0 to $5

Joshua Wood · Answer

Yes Medicare has approved the coverage for CGMs or continuous glucose monitors. Depending on your coverage you have in place this coverage could differ or have requirements on specific brands you must use to get them covered in full. 

Example- You just started medicare and have been using ABC glucose monitors up to this point, but the insurance company you're with only covers XYZ glucose monitors in full. You may still be able to purchase and get some form of help for using ABC company but if you switch to XYZ company your insurance company will cover in full. This happens more frequently than you may think so it's always important to review what your CURRENT company covers.

Steve Houchens · Answer

Yes Medicare covers these but only if they are prescribed by a doctor. There may be some cost sharing for the client but there are also companies available to help with or eliminate the out of pocket cost in many cases.

Answered by Steve Houchens on April 10, 2025

Agent Licensed in KY & TN

Answered by Steve Houchens Medicare Insurance Agent

Timothy Brown · Answer

Yes. Continuous glucose monitors are classified as durable medical equipment (DME)  which is covered under Medicare Part B.

Walt Smith · Answer

If you were talking about that kind of monitor that you put on your arm and leave it there, Medicare will pay for it and the replacement pods.

Juliette Chihade · Answer

Medicare expanded continuous glucose monitor coverage in April 2023 to any Medicare recipient prescribed insulin to treat diabetes, regardless of insulin type or amount, making approximately 1.5 million more people eligible.

Answered by Juliette Chihade on December 17, 2025

Agent Licensed in IL

Answered by Juliette Chihade Medicare Insurance Agent

Frank Woerner · Answer

Yes, Medicare Part B will pay for glucose monitors for diabetes. It usually will pay up to 80% for most items

Kelly Linster · Answer

Both Advantage and Supplements will cover CGM’s. They differ on how the equipment is covered. Seek out good council to how you want to attack this with your Medicare insurance.

Valentina Gatewood · Answer

Yes, Medicare plans do cover continuous glucose monitors. You will need to get a prescription from your doctor to submit to the new plan of choice.

Areasha Lockhart · Answer

Every situation is different and, in some cases, yes, your Medicare part B can pay its part (20 % and a Deductible) for a glucose monitor. If you have Medicare or a gap policy, being an advantage plan, standalone RX plan or a Medicare Supplement plan. We would have to look at those factors and the carrier to see if it will fully cover or if you have a deductible or copayment.

Answered by Areasha Lockhart on May 20, 2025

Broker Licensed in CO, IA & ME

Answered by Areasha Lockhart Medicare Insurance Agent

Fred Manas · Answer

Yes, Medicare typically covers continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) for individuals with diabetes who meet certain criteria, and these can include devices that connect to smartphones for data display and management. Medicare now covers a wider range of CGMs, including systems like the Dexcom G6 and FreeStyle Libre. 
Here's what you need to know about Medicare coverage for CGMs:
Eligibility:
To be covered, you typically need to have a prescription for a CGM from your doctor and meet specific criteria, such as being treated with insulin or having a history of problematic hypoglycemia. 
Medicare Part B:
Coverage is typically under Medicare Part B, which covers durable medical equipment (DME) like CGMs. 
Cost-sharing:
Medicare will usually pay for 80% of the cost of the CGM, and the patient will be responsible for the remaining 20%, as well as any applicable copays. 
Smartphone integration:
While Medicare may cover CGMs that connect to smartphones for data display, the device itself must be FDA-approved and prescribed by your doctor. The smartphone is not covered as a separate DME. 
Specifics vary:
Coverage can vary slightly between original Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans. 
Approved brands:
Medicare typically covers CGMs approved by the FDA and purchased from Medicare-approved suppliers. Examples include the Dexcom G6, Dexcom G7, FreeStyle Libre 2, and FreeStyle Libre 3. 
Importance of documentation:
It's crucial to keep detailed records of your blood glucose readings and any hypoglycemic episodes, as this can help support your doctor's prescription for a CGM.

Vachik Chakhbazian · Answer

Yes, Medicare may cover continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) technology, including devices that connect to smartphones, for individuals with diabetes who meet specific criteria. Medicare Part B covers certain therapeutic CGMs as durable medical equipment (DME). To qualify, you generally need to be prescribed the device by a Medicare-participating doctor, use it with a stand-alone receiver or insulin pump, and demonstrate proper training in its use.

Answered by Vachik Chakhbazian on August 16, 2025

Agent Licensed in CA, AL, AR & 22 other states

Answered by Vachik Chakhbazian Medicare Insurance Agent

Gary Henderson · Answer

Yes, Medicare Part B covers high-tech glucose monitoring devices like continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) as durable medical equipment (DME). This includes both non-adjunctive and adjunctive CGMs. Medicare will cover CGMs for individuals with diabetes who are treated with insulin or have hypoglycemia, and who meet specific criteria.

Answered by Gary Henderson on April 11, 2025

Agent Licensed in TX, AK, AL & 46 other states

Answered by Gary Henderson Medicare Insurance Agent

Mary Brown · Answer

Yes, Medicare may cover a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) and related supplies if you have diabetes, your doctor prescribes it, and you meet certain medical requirements. Medicare covers the CGM itself, including many models that connect to a smartphone for real-time readings and alerts. Under Part B, you would typically pay 20% after the deductible unless you have additional coverage.

Answered by Mary Brown on May 19, 2026

Broker Licensed in NJ, DE, FL & NC, OH, PA & TX

Answered by Mary Brown Medicare Insurance Agent

Dean Chiapetto · Answer

Medicare will cover a CGM for diabetes and supplies if you use insulin. If you have Original Medicare it is covered under part B, durable medical equipment. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan you need to check to see what brand they will pay for.

Answered by Dean Chiapetto on April 28, 2026

Broker Licensed in VA, MD, NC, TN & WV

Answered by Dean Chiapetto Medicare Insurance Agent

Mike Henry · Answer

You’d have to consult with Medicare maybe through your doctor. Everything has to be Dr recommended and Medicare approved

Rodolfo Rojas · Answer

Yes, CGM is covered under Medicare Part B under durable equipment. 
Including popular brands like Dexcom and Freestyle libre. 
If you are in Medicare Advantage, you will qualify for a Chronic Plan, which has many more benefits. 
Your doctor must prescribe your CGM. 
It would be best to talk to one of us, we can make sure your doctors are in the network and that your medications are covered. It depends on which Medicare Advantage are in your area. 
You are welcome to contact me. 

Rudy Rojas

Linda Davies · Answer

Yes, Medicare does cover continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) that connect to smartphones, but with specific conditions. Medicare coverage for CGMs is available when the glucose data is displayed on a standalone receiver (a durable medical equipment, or DME) that is also transmitted to a compatible smartphone or other personal device. This means the receiver must be used at least some of the time for Medicare coverage to apply.

Answered by Linda Davies on May 29, 2025

Agent Licensed in IL

Answered by Linda Davies Medicare Insurance Agent

David Christian · Answer

Continous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) are covered on Medicare. They fall in the category of Durable Medical Equipment (DME). The copay or coinsurance for them vary depending on your particular plan's benefits for DME.

Answered by David Christian on May 14, 2025

Broker Licensed in CA & TX

Answered by David Christian Medicare Insurance Agent

Natalee Nimmo · Answer

Yes, they will. I would contact American diabetic supply and let them know Natalee Nimmo referred you and they can certainly help you. I send all my clients to them because they are the best. Out of 150 clients, I have not referred one complaint to them. Contact me.

Answered by Natalee Nimmo on March 16, 2026

Broker Licensed in SC, FL, GA & KY, MO, NC & TX

Answered by Natalee Nimmo Medicare Insurance Agent

Patrick Stinson · Answer

It might. Check out usmed website. They will be able to tell you for sure.

Jerry Cohen · Answer

The answer to this question is .... it depends. There are qualifications to receive approval on this type of device. 1. The person must be utilizing insulin to control their condition. 2. The doctor must prescribe the use of the device 3. The doctor has to be reasonably sure that you or your caretaker have the knowledge and skill to utilize this device.

Answered by Jerry Cohen on May 21, 2025

Broker Licensed in NY

Answered by Jerry Cohen Medicare Insurance Agent

Albert Smith · Answer

Yes, Medicare can cover continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) for people with type 2 diabetes who meet specific criteria. Coverage is available under Medicare Part B as durable medical equipment. To qualify, you must have a diagnosis of diabetes and either be taking insulin or have a history of problematic hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Your doctor must also prescribe the monitor and confirm that you've received adequate training on its use.

Answered by Albert Smith on April 21, 2025

Broker Licensed in IL, FL, GA & 6 other states

Answered by Albert Smith Medicare Insurance Agent

Jajuan Knox · Answer

Yes! Medicare Part B can cover a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) if your doctor prescribes it and you meet certain requirements, like having diabetes and needing insulin or having issues with low blood sugar. Medicare will cover the CGM and the supplies as durable medical equipment, though you’ll still be responsible for 20% of the approved cost after your Part B deductible.
Just keep in mind that Medicare won’t pay for your smartphone — even if the CGM connects to an app. The device itself needs to meet Medicare’s requirements, and your doctor has to prescribe it and make sure you know how to use it. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan instead, coverage is usually similar, but it’s a good idea to double-check with your plan to be sure.

Daniel Matar · Answer

No, Medicare does not cover CGM if  you rely solely on a smartphone to display the data. You will need a stand alone receiver. You can use your smart phone in addition to the receiver.

Michael Hixson · Answer

Unfortunately, the answer to this question is not always as cut and dry of an answer as you'd like. Yes, Medicare states what they do and do not cover, but there are other correlating factors that go into a service or procedure being covered. Factors like the procedure's medical necessity, the doctor's participation, and how the bill is coded are some variables that affect the answer to this question.

If you need more specific guidance or have other questions regarding Medicare coverage, please feel free to reach out!

Dionisio Guillermo · Answer

If you are on insulin treatment and certified by your doctor as medically necessary, Medicare Part B may cover it.

Kelli Callihan Ostrander · Answer

Yes, Medicare Part B generally covers Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) for individuals with diabetes who meet specific criteria. Medicare classifies CGMs as durable medical equipment and covers them when deemed medically necessary by a healthcare professional.

Answered by Kelli Callihan Ostrander on July 10, 2025

Agent Licensed in VA, FL, NC & WV

Answered by Kelli Callihan Ostrander Medicare Insurance Agent

Mike Sosso · Answer

Medicare will most likely cover your CGM (continuous glucose monitor if you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, are insulin treated, or have a history of problematic hypoglycemia. You must use an FDA approved system. To ensure you meet the guidelines, use a Medicare- approved supplier, and we suggest you consult your doctor and supplier, and verify with Medicare or your CGM provider the item is approved before your purchase.

Answered by Mike Sosso on May 20, 2025

Broker Licensed in TX, AZ, NC & SD

Answered by Mike Sosso Medicare Insurance Agent

Hollie Hittner · Answer

Yes! When chosing your Medicare plan you will want to make sure your Current CGM is one that will be covered on the plan you choose!

Sunil Bhawnani · Answer

Yes, currently Medicare does cover glucose monitors, including those who use smartphones to monitor their glucose levels.

Gidjetta Jefferson · Answer

Yes, Medicare will cover your diabetic products. In addition, Medicare will covers all conditions and some plans offer over the counter incentives, that will also assist clients with the purchase of these items.

Answered by Gidjetta Jefferson on August 20, 2025

Agent Licensed in TX

Answered by Gidjetta Jefferson Medicare Insurance Agent

I use a continuous glucose monitor for my diabetes that connects to my smartphone. Will Medicare cover this technology for someone with my condition?

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