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Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs)

Explore expert blogs on Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs), including setup tips, insurance coverage, and diabetes management support.

Have You Met Your Deductible? Here’s Why December Is the Best Time to Reorder CPAP and Other Medical Supplies

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Have You Met Your Deductible? Here's Why December is the Best Time to Reorder CPAP and Other Medical Supplies

As the year winds down, many patients find themselves wondering: “Have I met my deductible?”

If the answer is yes, December is one of the best times to reorder medical supplies, especially if you use a CPAP machine, continuous glucose monitor (CGM), nebulizer, oxygen equipment, or other durable medical equipment (DME).

Whether you’re managing sleep apnea, diabetes, or another chronic condition, restocking before the year ends can help you save money, maximize your insurance benefits, and start the new year fully prepared.

Why December Is the Ideal Time to Reorder

If you’ve met your deductible, your out-of-pocket costs for medical supplies may be significantly lower for the rest of the year. That makes December a great time to:

Most insurance plans reset on January 1, meaning your deductible will begin again. Reordering now can help you avoid higher costs later.

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Don’t Forget Your FSA or HSA Deadline

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) can significantly reduce healthcare expenses, but each works differently:

  • FSA funds typically expire on December 31 (some plans offer a small rollover or grace period)
  • HSA funds roll over, but using them before year-end can reduce taxable income

Use your remaining balance to stock up on eligible items, such as:

  • CPAP masks, cushions, tubing, and cleaning supplies
  • CGM sensors, receivers, and adhesive patches
  • Compression garments
  • Nebulizer kits and replacement parts
  • Mobility aids and accessories

Shopping ahead now prevents unused FSA dollars from expiring and ensures you’re equipped going into 2026.

Shop FSA/HSA Eligible Products

Quick Compliance Reminders for New Users

If you’re newer to CPAP or CGM therapy, staying on top of replacement schedules and guidelines helps protect your coverage and ensures your equipment works properly.

For CPAP Users:

  • Replace your mask every 3 months and tubing every 6 months
  • Swap air filters every 2–4 weeks (based on model type)
  • Clean equipment regularly to prevent infections and extend device life
  • Attend required follow-up visits to document continued use

For CGM Users:

  • Make sure your CGM was prescribed according to FDA indications
  • Complete a face-to-face or telehealth visit within 6 months of your order (Medicare requirement)
  • Keep records of training and usage for insurance compliance
  • Replace sensors and transmitters according to manufacturer guidelines

If you need help with compliance questions or unsure what to reorder, the NextGen team can walk you through it.

Contact a NextGen Specialist

Reordering Is Easy with NextGen Medical Supplies

At NextGen Medical Supplies, we make year-end reorders simple and stress-free. We offer:

  • Fast, secure online ordering
  • Insurance verification to help you understand coverage
  • Friendly reminders for CPAP and CGM replacement schedules
  • Support for FSA/HSA purchases
  • Compassionate, U.S.-based customer service

Call or Text: 1-888-557-7085

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Make the Most of Your Year-End Benefits

Don’t let your deductible savings or FSA funds go to waste. Reordering now ensures you’re ready for the new year with:

  • Fresh, clean supplies
  • Lower out-of-pocket costs
  • Better therapy performance
  • Peace of mind heading into 2026

Reorder CPAP Supplies Today

Check Your CGM Eligibility

Who Qualifies for a CGM? Medicare Basics & Outcome Talking Points for Diabetes Care

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As continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) become a cornerstone of modern diabetes management, providers need clarity on CGM coverage criteria, documentation requirements, and how to effectively communicate the value of CGMs to patients.

In April 2023, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) expanded CGM coverage to align with American Diabetes Association (ADA) standards, making it easier for more individuals with diabetes to qualify.

At NextGen Medical Supplies, we help endocrinologists, primary care providers, and diabetes educators simplify this process through insurance support, compliance review, and patient onboarding.

Medicare CGM Coverage: 2023 Expansion Overview

CMS broadened eligibility for CGMs under the Medicare Part B DME benefit (effective April 16, 2023). The updated policy expanded coverage to include patients using any insulin regimen or those with problematic hypoglycemia, even if not using insulin.

Who Qualifies:

Patients must meet one of the following criteria:

  • Have a diagnosis of diabetes mellitus, and
    • Be treated with any insulin regimen (basal, bolus, or pump therapy)
      OR
  • Have a history of problematic hypoglycemia, including:
    • Recurrent Level 2 events (<54 mg/dL) despite treatment adjustments, or

Additional Requirements

  • The CGM must be prescribed per FDA indications.
  • The patient or caregiver must receive training on proper CGM use.
  • A face-to-face or telehealth visit must occur within 6 months of the original order.
Healthcare professional holding clipboard in front of laptop, notebook, and coffee at desk

CGM Documentation Checklist for Coverage

Comprehensive documentation ensures a smooth approval process. Include the following in the medical record and Standard Written Order (SWO):

Medical Record Must Show:

  • Diagnosis of diabetes mellitus (ICD-10 codes such as E10–E11 series)
  • Insulin use or documented hypoglycemia history
  • CGM prescribed per FDA guidelines
  • Evidence that the patient or caregiver received training
  • Visit note within 6 months of the CGM order

Standard Written Order (SWO) Must Include:

  • Patient name
  • Item description (e.g., “continuous glucose monitor”)
  • Quantity and frequency of supplies
  • Treating practitioner’s name, NPI, and signature

Continued Coverage:

To maintain coverage, patients must have a follow-up visit every 6 months documenting continued CGM use and medical necessity.

Female doctor speaking to dad and his daughter about continuous glucose monitors

Quick Talking Points for Patient Conversations

When introducing CGMs to patients, concise, outcome-based messaging helps build understanding and trust.

Improved Outcomes

  • Lower A1C without additional medications
  • Increased Time-in-Range (TIR), which is associated with fewer complications
  • Fewer hypoglycemia events, particularly overnight

Lifestyle Benefits

  • Real-time alerts for highs and lows
  • Personalized insights into how meals, stress, and activity affect glucose
  • Less reliance on fingersticks

Peace of Mind

  • Data sharing with caregivers or family
  • Predictive alerts for urgent lows
  • Greater confidence during travel, holidays, and daily routines
Close up of hands holding diabetes supplies and devices like a continuous glucose monitor, insulin pen, and blood glucose monitor.

Partner with NextGen Medical Supplies

NextGen Medical Supplies partners with clinicians to make CGM prescribing and fulfillment simple, compliant, and patient-friendly. Our team supports every step of the process by:

  • Reviewing documentation for Medicare and insurance compliance
  • Coordinating insurance verification and prior authorization
  • Assisting with patient onboarding, training, and follow-up

Need help with a referral or coverage check? Contact NextGen Medical Supplies to get started today.

Contact a NextGen Referral Specialist

Glucose Sensors 101: How Continuous Monitoring Helps You Navigate Holiday Meals and Avoid Highs and Lows

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The holiday season brings joy, celebration, and plenty of delicious food. For people living with diabetes, it can also bring unpredictable blood sugar swings. That’s where glucose sensors, also known as continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), come in.

These small, wearable devices provide real-time glucose readings, helping you stay in control even when your plate is full of festive favorites. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or supporting a loved one, understanding how continuous monitoring works can make a big difference during the holidays and beyond.

What Is a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM)?

A continuous glucose monitor (CGM) is a device that tracks your blood sugar levels around the clock. Instead of relying on fingersticks, CGMs use a tiny sensor placed under the skin, usually on the arm or abdomen, to measure glucose in the interstitial fluid.

That sensor sends data to a receiver or smartphone app, displaying your glucose trends in real time.

Key Features of CGMs:

  • Real-time alerts for highs and lows
  • Trend arrows showing whether glucose is rising, falling, or steady
  • “Time-in-range” tracking to help you stay within your target zone
  • Data sharing with caregivers, family members, or healthcare providers
Nurse applying a continuous glucose monitor to the arm of a person

Why CGMs Matter During the Holidays

Holiday meals tend to be high in carbohydrates and sugar, which can cause sharp glucose spikes. A CGM helps you see exactly how your body responds to different foods, so you can make smarter choices, without missing out on the celebration.

How a CGM Can Help During Holiday Eating:

  • Track glucose levels before, during, and after meals
  • Spot patterns from traditional dishes like stuffing, pie, or sweet potatoes
  • Make simple swaps, such as pairing carbs with protein or fiber, to reduce spikes
  • Avoid surprises from alcohol, stress, or lack of sleep

Even small changes, like choosing lean proteins or adding vegetables, can help keep glucose levels steady. With real-time alerts, you’ll know when it’s time to take action, before a high or low becomes a problem.

Learn More About Qualifying for a CGM

Understanding “Time-in-Range” and Alerts

Time-in-range refers to the percentage of time your glucose stays within your target zone (typically 70–180 mg/dL). The more time you spend in range, the better your overall glucose control and long-term health.

CGMs Also Include:

  • High and low alerts to warn you when levels go outside your range
  • Urgent low soon alerts to help prevent severe drops
  • Customizable thresholds for personalized control

These features are especially valuable during busy holiday events, when your usual schedule, meals, and activity level may change.

Tips for Using Your CGM During the Holidays

  • Check your sensor placement before travel or parties to ensure comfort and adhesion.
  • Pack extra supplies like sensors, wipes, snacks, and chargers.
  • Use your CGM as a guide, not a restriction, to enjoy your favorite treats in moderation.
  • Stay active! A short walk after meals can help lower glucose levels.
  • Monitor alcohol carefully, if you drink, pair beverages with food and keep an eye out for delayed lows.

Is a CGM Right for You or a Loved One?

CGMs are now available for many people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, including those using insulin or oral medications. Some models are even available over the counter, offering easier access to real-time glucose tracking.

If you’re wondering whether you qualify, NextGen Medical Supplies can help. Call us at 1-888-557-7085 or click the button below to fill out our secure online contact form.

Contact Our Friendly Specialists

Senior woman smiling at doctor and showing her CGM app with CGM on her arm

Explore Glucose Sensor Options with NextGen Medical Supplies

At NextGen Medical Supplies, we make it simple to access the latest glucose sensors and continuous monitoring solutions. Our team can help you:

  • Understand your insurance coverage and eligibility
  • Choose the right CGM for your lifestyle and therapy plan
  • Get started with training, setup, and ongoing support

Take charge of your health this holiday season, and beyond. Contact NextGen Medical Supplies to see if you qualify for a continuous glucose monitor today.

Contact NextGen Today

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