How to Get a CGM for Free: Options Guide

Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) have changed everything about tracking blood sugar levels. People with diabetes benefit the most, but athletes, health-focused individuals, and those with prediabetes also use these devices. The main problem is cost. Because of sensors, transmitters, and other parts, these monitors can cost hundreds of dollars each month. This expense keeps many people from trying CGMs. Many people wonder if they can get these devices without paying.

The simple answer is yes. You can get a CGM for free in several situations. Your options depend on your health insurance, participation in research studies, state programs, help from companies that make CGMs, or workplace health benefits.

This complete guide explains how to qualify for a free CGM in 2025. We cover realistic options and ways to improve your chances of getting approved, even if you do not have diabetes.

What’s Included in a CGM?

• Sensor: This small device goes under your skin and checks glucose levels constantly. You replace it every 7 to 14 days.
• Transmitter: This part sends glucose information from the sensor to your phone or a special reader. It works for 3 months to 1 year.
• Receiver or App: Some systems use a separate handheld device. Others connect to your smartphone through Bluetooth.

Companies sell these parts separately or together as a complete system. Knowing this breakdown helps when exploring free or cheaper options.

Top CGM Free Options to Get CGM for Free

Insurance-Covered CGMs: A Path to “Free”

Health insurance companies now cover CGMs more often. Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance plans include these devices in diabetes care. These are not truly free, but you might pay nothing out of your pocket based on your coverage.

Who Qualifies?

• People diagnosed with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes
• Those who need insulin shots
• Patients with frequent low or high blood sugar episodes
• People who cannot feel when their blood sugar drops

Medicare & Medicaid

Medicare Part B now pays for CGMs like Dexcom G7 and FreeStyle Libre for people who qualify. Those with extra insurance plans often get these devices at no cost.

Medicaid rules change by state but usually cover CGMs when doctors prescribe them for diabetes.

Steps to Access

• Get a prescription from your diabetes doctor or regular doctor
• Collect records showing you use insulin or have unstable blood sugar
• Find a medical equipment supplier that works with insurance
• Check if your insurance plan has zero copay options

Manufacturer Assistance Programs (MAPs)

Companies that make CGMs have special programs for patients. These programs offer free trials, lower prices, and long-term help for people with money problems.

Dexcom Patient Assistance Program

Dexcom has a structured program that might give you CGMs for free if you meet certain requirements. You might qualify if you have no insurance or poor insurance coverage. Your income must be below specific amounts, and you need a valid prescription for a Dexcom device. You can apply through Dexcom CARE or their website.

Abbott’s Freestyle Libre Program

Abbott gives first-time users a Free Trial Card. This usually covers the reader and two sensors, which lasts 28 days. Some patients with low incomes might get ongoing help.

Eversense Access Program (Ascensia/Senseonics)

This CGM goes under the skin and has a special discount program. You might pay nothing for getting the device put in and follow-up visits if you qualify based on insurance or income.

CGM Free Trial Offers (No Diabetes Diagnosis Needed)

CGM companies now target people interested in health and wellness. They offer short free trials to people without diabetes.

What to Know

• Duration: Usually 10 to 28 days
• Requirements: Sign up on the company website, valid ID, sometimes a first meeting
• Follow-up: Some companies give discounts if you want to continue

Brands to Watch for Trials:

• Levels Health (works with Dexcom)
• Signos
• January.ai
• NutriSense

These wellness companies combine CGMs with coaching or data apps. You might pay for subscriptions later, but the first CGM sensor or kit is often free as a trial.

Employer or Corporate Wellness Plans

Some smart companies include CGMs in employee health benefits. This happens especially for workers in wellness or health tracking programs.

Why Employers Are Offering CGMs:

• Better work performance by catching undiagnosed blood sugar drops
• Lower insurance costs from watching health early
• Wellness tracking connected to lifestyle coaching apps

Steps to Access

• Talk to your HR department or benefits provider
• Ask if your wellness program includes health monitoring or CGM options
• Join health challenges or tracking apps that might give CGMs as rewards

Some employers work with platforms that give CGMs to qualifying members for no cost.

Health Research & Clinical Trials

Universities, hospitals, and health companies offer free CGMs if you join their research studies.

What Kinds of Trials?

• Testing new CGM sensors
• Studies about how your body uses energy
• Research on exercise and blood sugar
• Nutrition feedback experiments

Where to Find Them

• ClinicalTrials.gov: Search for “CGM” or “continuous glucose monitor”
• Local universities or diabetes centers
• Startup studies through platforms like TrialSpark or ResearchMatch

What’s Required?

• Sign consent forms
• Attend lab visits or check-ins (in person or online)
• Follow study rules

Many trials last 1 to 3 months. They include free CGMs, lab tests, and sometimes payment for participation.

Community Health Programs & Nonprofits

Community health programs might help you get a free CGM if you have no insurance or low income. Some nonprofits focus on minority health or diabetes prevention and now include CGM monitoring.

Organizations to Explore

• Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA): Community health centers might offer CGMs through special funding
• American Diabetes Association (ADA): Partner clinics often run programs offering free devices for education and prevention
• YMCA Diabetes Prevention Program: Some locations provide CGM support during trial periods

You might need to attend health coaching sessions or nutrition classes. CGMs are often given free to people who qualify.

How Non-Diabetics Can Still Qualify

People without diabetes can still get free CGMs through wellness companies and diagnostic labs.

Common Scenarios

• Prediabetes: High blood sugar but not diabetes yet
• Athletes: Want to improve performance through blood sugar feedback
• Health optimizers: Interested in insulin response, fasting, and diet control

Action Steps

• Join platforms like Levels, NutriSense, or Signos and apply for their limited trials
• Use lab test results to show interest in early health intervention
• Track your use and share feedback or stories in exchange for continued access

Key Strategies to Get Approval For Free CGM

These strategies help you qualify faster or find the best deals, no matter which path you choose.

Prepare Your Medical History

Even without diabetes, your fasting blood sugar, HbA1c test, or weight loss story can help show why you need a CGM.

Talk to a CGM-Literate Provider

Some doctors understand wellness monitoring better than others. Find doctors who support preventive care and lifestyle tracking.

Apply Through Multiple Channels

Do not apply to just one trial or program. At the same time, apply to several manufacturer programs, clinics, and platforms.

Conclusion

CGMs seem expensive, but getting one for free is possible. You can manage a health condition or explore wellness optimization through many paths. Insurance coverage, startup trials, and nonprofit partnerships all offer opportunities. The secret is knowing if you qualify and taking action.

Everyone should have access to real-time health data to make better choices. A CGM can help you whether you have prediabetes, diabetes, or just focus on wellness.

Not sure how to start? At Healify Now, our team helps you explore all options. Our care team answers questions about how CGM works and whether it fits your needs. Schedule your free consultation today and get your personalized CGM plan.

FAQs

1. Do I Need To Have Diabetes To Get A CGM For Free?

No. Some wellness trials, startup programs, and workplace benefits cover CGMs for people without diabetes as part of health optimization.

2. How Long Does A Free Trial CGM Last?

Usually between 10 and 28 days, depending on the brand and program.

3. What Documents Do I Need For Insurance To Approve My CGM?

A prescription, blood sugar or HbA1c records, and proof of insulin use (if needed).

4. Can I Reapply To A Free Trial Program?

Most are limited to first-time users, but new promotions might become available over time.

5. Is It Safe To Use CGMs Obtained Through Trials Or Community Programs?

Yes, as long as the device has FDA approval and gets installed with proper guidance.

Evelyn Brown