CGM
(all CGM systems)
CGM stands for continuous glucose monitoring. CGM devices measure the glucose level in the interstitial fluid of the subcutaneous tissue every five minutes.
This gives patients a 24-hour overview of their daily blood sugar curve. Your doctor can evaluate it, assess trends more easily and so avoid hypoglycaemia more reliably.
For the German statutory health insurers, CGM counts as a „new examination and treatment method“ (NUB); the costs are only covered in individually reviewed cases.
Symptoms for which a CGM can be prescribed
Problems with hypoglycaemia, such as
Frequent severe hypoglycaemia (help from others is needed)
Severe nocturnal hypoglycaemia
Demonstrated impaired awareness of hypoglycaemia
Unsatisfactory metabolic control
That is, the target HbA1c value is not reached although all available forms of therapy, such as insulin pump therapy (CSII), are being used, the patient is highly motivated and psychological conditions have been ruled out.
Also during pregnancy
Or when more than ten blood sugar measurements a day are needed to reach the target for metabolic control
Requirements a patient has to meet for a CGM
High motivation
All other available measures for optimising metabolism have been exhausted (including CSII)
Participation in CGM education and training
Regular examinations by the diabetes specialist
Where applicable, an individual trial phase of several weeks that demonstrates a positive effect
No factors that argue against a CGM (see below)
Circumstances in which a CGM must not be prescribed
No willingness to intensify the effort involved in treatment, or a lack of motivation
Fear of technical systems or no confidence in such devices
Substance abuse (including alcohol)
Psychological problems that are not rooted in the diabetes itself
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