Dexcom G7 vs G6: Comparison Guide
When it comes to managing diabetes, continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems play a crucial role in providing real-time information about blood sugar levels. Dexcom, a leading manufacturer of CGM systems, offers two popular models – Dexcom G7 and Dexcom G6. In this comprehensive comparison guide, we will explore the key features, benefits, availability, pricing, and insurance coverage of both systems to help you make an informed decision.
Dexcom G7 Overview
What is Dexcom G7?
Dexcom G7 is the latest CGM system developed by Dexcom. It features a smaller, disposable sensor with an extended wear time, providing users with up to 14 days of continuous glucose monitoring. The G7 system offers enhanced accuracy and reliability, ensuring accurate glucose readings for effective diabetes management. Additionally, it boasts improved connectivity and compatibility, allowing seamless integration with smartphones and other compatible devices.
Benefits of Dexcom G7
Dexcom G7 brings several benefits over previous Dexcom models. Firstly, it offers an improved user experience and convenience with its smaller, disposable sensor and extended wear time. Users can enjoy up to two weeks of uninterrupted glucose monitoring without the need for frequent sensor changes. Secondly, G7 provides enhanced accuracy and reliability, allowing for better glucose management and reducing the risk of hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia. Thirdly, the G7 system is designed to be more comfortable and less intrusive in daily activities, ensuring users can go about their day without interference. Lastly, Dexcom G7 offers advanced connectivity options, allowing users to view their glucose data directly on their smartphones and share it with healthcare providers or family members for better support.
Dexcom G7 Availability and Release Date
Dexcom G7 is highly anticipated by the diabetes community. While the exact release date may vary by region, Dexcom has announced plans to launch G7 in select markets in late 2021, with wider availability expected in 2022. It’s important to stay updated with Dexcom’s official announcements and consult with your healthcare provider for the most accurate information regarding its availability in your area.
Pricing and Insurance Coverage
As for pricing, Dexcom G7’s cost is yet to be officially announced. However, Dexcom has historically priced its CGM systems competitively. It’s worth noting that insurance coverage for CGM systems varies depending on the insurance provider and policy. Many insurance plans do cover CGM systems, but it’s recommended to check with your insurance company to understand the specific coverage details. Dexcom also offers financial assistance programs and discounts for eligible individuals, which can help make the system more affordable.
Dexcom G6 Overview
What is Dexcom G6?
Dexcom G6 is a previous-generation CGM system developed by Dexcom. It consists of a small sensor that is inserted under the skin to continuously measure glucose levels. The G6 system offers improved accuracy and reliability compared to older Dexcom models, making it a popular choice among individuals with diabetes.
Benefits of Dexcom G6
Dexcom G6 brings several benefits over older Dexcom models. Firstly, it provides enhanced accuracy and reliability, reducing the need for frequent fingerstick calibrations. This feature improves the user experience and allows for more convenient glucose monitoring. Secondly, the G6 system integrates seamlessly with compatible insulin pumps and smartphones, allowing users to easily access their glucose data and share it with healthcare providers or family members. Lastly, Dexcom G6 offers a user-friendly interface and customizable alerts and alarms, providing users with important notifications to manage their glucose levels effectively.
Dexcom G6 Availability and Updates
Dexcom G6 is currently available in the market and widely used by individuals with diabetes. Dexcom regularly updates its CGM systems to improve performance and user experience.
Pricing and Insurance Coverage
The cost of Dexcom G6 varies depending on factors such as location and insurance coverage. It is recommended to check with Dexcom or your local distributor for the specific pricing details in your region. As for insurance coverage, many insurance plans cover Dexcom G6 as it is considered a medically necessary device for diabetes management. However, coverage policies may vary, so it is important to contact your insurance provider to understand the extent of coverage and any potential out-of-pocket expenses.
Dexcom G7 vs G6 Comparison
Design and Wearability
When comparing the design and wearability of Dexcom G7 and G6, there are some notable differences. Dexcom G7 features a smaller and more discreet sensor compared to G6, making it less noticeable when worn. The G7 sensor is also disposable, eliminating the need for sensor reinsertion and reducing the overall size of the system. This makes the G7 more comfortable to wear for an extended period. Both G7 and G6 sensors are designed to be water-resistant, allowing users to wear them while showering or swimming.
Accuracy and Reliability
Both Dexcom G7 and G6 offer high levels of accuracy and reliability in glucose readings. However, Dexcom G7 is expected to bring further improvements in this aspect. With advancements in technology, G7 is anticipated to provide even more precise glucose measurements, reducing the risk of false readings and improving overall accuracy. It is important to note that CGM systems are not intended to replace traditional blood glucose meters entirely, but they serve as valuable tools for continuous monitoring and trend analysis.
Sensor Wear Time
Dexcom G7 offers an extended wear time of up to 14 days, providing users with two weeks of continuous glucose monitoring before needing to replace the sensor. On the other hand, Dexcom G6 has a wear time of 10 days. The longer wear time of the G7 reduces the frequency of sensor changes, offering greater convenience to users. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for sensor application and removal to ensure optimal performance and minimize any discomfort during the process.
Connectivity and Integration
Both Dexcom G7 and G6 offer connectivity options and integration capabilities. The G7 system is designed to have enhanced connectivity features, allowing users to easily sync their glucose data with compatible smartphones and other devices. This enables convenient access to real-time glucose readings, trend analysis, and data sharing with healthcare providers or family members. Dexcom G6 also offers seamless integration with compatible insulin pumps and smartphones, providing users with comprehensive diabetes management tools.
User Experience and Convenience
Both Dexcom G7 and G6 prioritize user experience and convenience. Dexcom G7’s smaller and disposable sensor, along with its extended wear time, offers users a more comfortable and convenient experience. The system requires fewer sensor changes, reducing the overall burden of diabetes management. Dexcom G6 also provides ease of use with its one-button insertion and no fingerstick calibrations required. Both systems offer customizable alerts and alarms to notify users of high or low glucose levels, ensuring timely interventions and improved glucose control.
Cost and Insurance Coverage
As mentioned earlier, the specific cost of Dexcom G7 and G6 may vary depending on factors such as location and insurance coverage. It is recommended to check with Dexcom or your local distributor for the most accurate pricing information. Insurance coverage for both systems may be available, but it is essential to contact your insurance provider to understand the extent of coverage and any potential out-of-pocket expenses.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Dexcom G7 and G6 are both advanced CGM systems that provide valuable tools for individuals with diabetes to manage their glucose levels effectively. Dexcom G7 offers several improvements over the G6, including a smaller disposable sensor, extended wear time, enhanced accuracy, and improved connectivity. However, both systems offer benefits such as accuracy, integration with smartphones and insulin pumps, user-friendly interfaces, and customizable alerts. Pricing and insurance coverage may vary, so it is important to consult with Dexcom and your insurance provider for specific details. As CGM technology continues to advance, it is crucial to stay informed and work closely with healthcare providers to make informed decisions about diabetes management.
