Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) are hailed as advanced technology for diabetes management, yet adoption remains relatively low. According to Smart Meter, a supplier of cellular Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) solutions, only 6.3% of the 34 million Americans with diabetes use CGMs. Several challenges hinder widespread adoption.
The primary obstacle is cost. CGMs can be expensive, with an initial setup price reaching $1,200 and ongoing monthly fees totaling up to $300. For many, these costs are prohibitive, creating a financial barrier to access.
In addition to cost, CGM technology is often plagued by disconnection issues. These devices rely on Bluetooth, WiFi, and smartphones to transmit glucose readings. If one connection fails, troubleshooting may be necessary, leading to missed readings. This data loss can negatively impact diabetes management, potentially causing hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia.
Accuracy is another concern. CGMs measure glucose levels in the interstitial fluid rather than directly in the blood, which can lead to discrepancies. Many patients resort to traditional fingerstick testing to confirm CGM readings, especially if discrepancies arise between symptoms and reported levels. One study revealed that 59% of participants stopped using their CGMs for at least one month due to varying accuracy, particularly during the initial and final days of sensor wear.
Despite these challenges, CGMs have the potential to improve glycemic control. However, frustrations with cost, connectivity, and accuracy have led to dissatisfaction among users, limiting the technology’s adoption.
Smart Meter aims to address these issues through its iGlucose Plus device, which meets high accuracy standards and sends results directly to healthcare providers via a proprietary cellular network. This approach could enhance patient engagement and adherence to diabetes management protocols, contributing to better health outcomes.
As CGM technology continues to evolve, addressing these barriers will be essential in increasing its use and effectiveness for diabetes patients.
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