Who with Type 2 diabetes benefits from CGM?
The role and benefit of CGM depend on the clinical situation and treatment program. A glucose trace or category of diabetes alone does not establish who benefits most.
In DIAMOND, adults with type 1 diabetes using multiple daily insulin injections had an adjusted between-group HbA1c difference of 0.6 percentage points at 24 weeks with CGM versus usual monitoring. In MOBILE, adults with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes using basal but not mealtime insulin had a 0.4-point between-group difference at eight months. These results apply to those treatment programs and populations.
Non-insulin treatment covers different medications and risks. A CGM trace does not establish that monitoring improves outcomes more than laboratory HbA1c; discuss device choice and interpretation with your clinician.
For diet- and activity-based management, the role of CGM and its benefits depend on the individual. OTC access alone does not establish clinical suitability or coverage.
Insulin users vs non-insulin users
Insulin use affects device selection and coverage; other clinical needs and exact device labeling also matter.
Insulin users need a suitably cleared prescription CGM if using sensor data for treatment. Choose it with your clinician and check current pump compatibility and plan criteria.
If you don't use insulin: you have more flexibility. Prescription CGMs are an option if your prescriber recommends one and your insurance covers it. OTC CGMs (Stelo, Lingo) are FDA-cleared for adults aged 18 and older (Lingo) or people aged 2 years and older (Stelo, since June 2026) who do not use insulin and can be bought without insurance or a prescription, but FDA clearance does not make either device right for your individual diabetes management: discuss it with your prescriber before acting on the readings, and note that the Stelo is not intended for people with problematic hypoglycemia or on dialysis (Stelo, FDA K234070 and Lingo, FDA K233655). CGM subscription programs (Nutrisense, Levels) are another way to get a sensor; ask your prescriber whether they fit your situation.
Best CGM devices for Type 2 diabetes
On insulin — prescription options to discuss:
FreeStyle Libre 3 — 7.8% MARD in Abbott's own pivotal trial (not directly comparable with other devices' figures), 14-day wear. An option for Type 2 patients on insulin who don't need closed-loop AID compatibility. Read our full review →
Dexcom G7 is a prescription option with model-specific watch, alert and pump features. Confirm exact compatibility with the care team. Read the review →
Not on insulin — options to discuss:
Stelo is an OTC option with a separate indication and exclusions and no clinical high/low alarms. Non-insulin use alone does not establish suitability. Read the review →
Nutrisense currently lists Dexcom Stelo among its products. Coaching plans provide access to registered dietitians. Check the selected plan for sensor quantity, coaching and service eligibility; the device’s FDA indication does not determine eligibility for the service.
Insurance coverage for Type 2
Coverage depends on the exact device, plan, documentation and supplier. Medicare requires all applicable criteria, including diabetes, a prescription, training, FDA-consistent use, required visits and insulin treatment or documented problematic hypoglycemia. Ask your insurer and prescriber about your situation.
Not on insulin: coverage varies significantly. Some plans cover CGM for non-insulin Type 2 patients with prior authorization; others don't. Ask your insurer specifically about coverage for your situation. If coverage is denied, you can appeal or consider OTC options.
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OTC alternative: if you can't get insurance coverage, Dexcom Stelo is available without insurance or a prescription. Check current price on Amazon →