There’s a Better Way to Monitor Your Blood Sugar
By Kelly Stalnaker, Baywind Medical
Are you a Type 1 or Type 2 diabetic who’s tired of constant fingersticks? It may be time to consider a continuous glucose monitor, or CGM for short.
A CGM automatically tracks your blood sugar levels 24/7 with fewer fingersticks. Instead of using lancets, a tiny sensor is placed just under the skin and held in place with a small adhesive patch. There may be brief discomfort during insertion, but once in place, testing is completely painless, and readings appear instantly on your reader or smartphone.
This small wearable device can be life-changing. By giving you quick, convenient access to real-time blood sugar data, a CGM helps you make better food, activity, and medication decisions throughout the day. Over time, you can spot trends and learn how different meals or activities affect your glucose levels. Many models even alert you when levels are dangerously high or low, helping you stay safe and in control.
Because CGMs are easy to use, they’re perfect for patients of all ages. Plus, they are waterproof, durable, and made to handle your active lifestyle. You can work in the garden, enjoy the sauna, toss and turn in your sleep, cuddle with your pets, and even swim and bathe with little chance of it falling off!
If you’re a Medicare patient who uses a CGM, or is thinking about making the switch to one, please note that there have been some recent changes in how these devices are covered. In the past, CGMs were classified as a pharmacy benefit, meaning patients could pick them up directly from a pharmacy. Today they are classified as Durable Medical Equipment (DME), so supplies must be dispensed through a DME provider like Baywind Medical (formerly J&B Medical). Continuing to use the pharmacy for your CGMs may mean higher out-of-pocket costs for you.
As one of the few local DME providers in the area, Baywind Medical is proud to offer CGMs to Medicare and Tricare patients. We make it easy to get started, simply have a chat with your doctor about whether a CGM might be right for you, then ask to have your prescription sent to Baywind Medical. After we confirm eligibility, we’ll ship the equipment directly to your front door. Plus, you’ll have access to friendly, knowledgeable representatives in person or by phone, five days a week. As a family-owned business right here in your community, we are committed to the health and wellbeing of our neighbors.
Call Baywind Medical today at (850) 729-2559 or stop by 540 E. John Sims Pkwy in Niceville and experience the care that you deserve.
