Dexcom to FreeStyle Libre Switch: How Martha Saved $1,200 a Year on CGM

This article shares one senior’s experience switching from Dexcom to FreeStyle Libre. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your diabetes management routine. It should be noted that Dexcom recently recalled over 2 million sensors as they were not functioning correctly.

When Martha Johnson, 72, decided to make the Dexcom to FreeStyle Libre switch, she was nervous about learning a new continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system. “I’d been using Dexcom for three years, but the monthly costs were stretching my budget,” she explains from her kitchen table, surrounded by both old Dexcom supplies and her new FreeStyle Libre sensors. “My endocrinologist suggested I consider FreeStyle Libre as a more affordable option.”

What started as a financial decision became a journey of discovery, showing Martha that switching CGM systems wasn’t as daunting as she’d feared – and the savings were even better than expected.

Why Consider Switching from Dexcom to FreeStyle Libre?

Like Martha, many seniors are discovering compelling reasons to make the Dexcom to FreeStyle Libre switch. Understanding these factors can help you decide if switching might benefit you too.

Martha’s Primary Motivations:

1. Financial Savings

Dexcom monthly cost: $150-200 (with Medicare)
FreeStyle Libre monthly cost: $40-50 (with Medicare)
Annual savings: Over $1,200
“That’s my entire Christmas gift budget freed up!”

2. Simplicity

No separate transmitter to manage
Fewer components to track
Simpler insertion process
Less electronic waste

3. Longer Wear Time

FreeStyle Libre: 14 days per sensor
Dexcom G6: 10 days per sensor
Fewer sensor changes monthly
More convenient for travel

4. No Calibration

Both systems now calibration-free
But Libre never required fingersticks
Consistent experience
Less supplies needed

Additional Benefits Discovered:

Size Difference: “The FreeStyle Libre is so much smaller!” Martha exclaims. “My grandkids don’t even notice it under my sleeve anymore.”

Application Ease: “With my arthritis, the one-button Libre applicator is much easier than Dexcom’s two-step process.”

Quiet Operation: “I appreciate that Libre doesn’t constantly alert unless I set it to. Dexcom sometimes felt like information overload.”

Medicare Coverage Update

📍 2025 Coverage Facts: Both Dexcom G7 and FreeStyle Libre 3 are covered under Medicare Part B with 20% coinsurance after meeting your deductible. However, actual out-of-pocket costs can vary significantly.

Coverage Comparison:

Dexcom Coverage:

Sensors + transmitter included
Higher allowed amount
20% typically = $50-75/month
Replacement transmitters add cost

FreeStyle Libre Coverage:

Sensors only (no transmitter needed)
Lower allowed amount
20% typically = $30-40/month
All-in-one design saves money

Martha’s Insight: “Even though both are ‘covered,’ the actual cost difference is substantial. Always ask for specific numbers!”

Making the Switch: Martha’s Step-by-Step Experience

Martha’s Dexcom to FreeStyle Libre switch took place over several weeks. Here’s her detailed roadmap:

Pre-Switch Preparation (Week 1)

Day 1-3: Research Phase

Compared features online
Read user reviews
Watched YouTube tutorials
Called Medicare for coverage details

Day 4-5: Medical Consultation

Discussed with endocrinologist
Reviewed glucose patterns
Got new prescription
Addressed concerns

Day 6-7: Financial Verification

Called DME supplier
Confirmed exact costs
Compared to current expenses
Made final decision

Step 1: Medicare Coverage Verification

First, Martha contacted Medicare to confirm FreeStyle Libre coverage:

What She Learned:

Both CGMs covered equally
No prior authorization needed
Could switch immediately
Supplier choice mattered for pricing

Pro Tip: “Call Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE with your Medicare number ready. Ask for the exact allowed amount for both systems – this reveals true costs.”

Step 2: Getting the Right Prescription

Martha’s doctor visit for the Dexcom to FreeStyle Libre switch:

Prescription Requirements:

Specified “FreeStyle Libre 3” (latest model)
Included diagnosis codes
Noted “switching from Dexcom”
Requested 3-month supply

Doctor’s Perspective: “Dr. Chen was completely supportive,” Martha recalls. “She said many patients were switching for cost reasons, and the accuracy was comparable.”

Step 3: Choosing a Medicare Supplier

Martha’s Supplier Research:

Called three DME companies
Compared prices and services
Asked about shipping options
Verified Medicare billing

Key Questions She Asked:

“What’s my exact out-of-pocket cost?”
“Do you offer automatic refills?”
“How quickly can I get supplies?”
“Do you provide training support?”

Winner: Senior CGM Support offered best price and service

Step 4: Timing the Transition

Strategic planning for the Dexcom to FreeStyle Libre switch:

Martha’s Timeline:

Ordered Libre with 5 days left on Dexcom
Received Libre supplies in 3 days
Applied Libre when Dexcom expired
No gap in monitoring!

Overlap Tip: “Don’t remove a working Dexcom early. Use every day you paid for, then switch.”

Step 5: Learning the New System

Training Resources Martha Used:

FreeStyle Libre starter kit
YouTube tutorials
Supplier phone support
Granddaughter’s help

Key Differences to Master:

Scanning vs. continuous display
New app interface
Different alarm options
Report formats

Step 6: Application Day

Martha’s first FreeStyle Libre application:

The Experience: “I was nervous, but it was actually easier than Dexcom! One click and done. No separate transmitter to attach.”

Application Differences:

Libre: Single unit, press down
Dexcom: Sensor first, then transmitter
Libre: 60-minute warmup
Dexcom: 2-hour warmup

Pain Comparison: “Honestly, I felt the Libre insertion less. The spring-loaded applicator is very quick.”

Week-by-Week Transition Experience

Week 1: Learning Curve

Days 1-3: Adjustment Period

Getting used to scanning
Missing continuous display
Learning new app
Comparing readings

Martha’s Notes: “I kept checking my phone expecting to see numbers like with Dexcom. Had to remind myself to scan!”

Days 4-7: Finding Rhythm

Established scanning routine
Set helpful reminders
Appreciated the simplicity
Noticed cost savings

Week 2: Building Confidence

New Discoveries:

Libre scans through clothing
Battery lasts full 14 days
Reports easy to understand
Family likes the app better

Unexpected Benefits:

Less anxiety without constant numbers
More present in conversations
Phone battery lasting longer
Fewer notification interruptions

Week 3-4: Full Adoption

Martha’s Verdict: “By week three, I wondered why I waited so long to switch. The Dexcom to FreeStyle Libre switch was much easier than expected.”

Established Routine:

Morning scan with coffee
Pre-meal checks
Post-activity monitoring
Bedtime verification

Comparing Daily Use: Dexcom vs. FreeStyle Libre

After a month, Martha documented practical differences:

Morning Routine

With Dexcom:

Check phone for overnight trends
Acknowledge any alerts
Calibrate if requested
Review detailed graphs

With FreeStyle Libre:

Single scan upon waking
Quick trend review
No calibration ever
Simple, clear display

Throughout the Day

Dexcom Experience:

Constant data stream
Multiple daily alerts
Automatic readings
Always connected feeling

FreeStyle Libre Experience:

Scan when curious
Alerts only if set
Control over checking
More mindful approach

Social Situations

Martha’s Observation: “At restaurant dinners, I prefer Libre’s discrete scanning over Dexcom’s potential alarms. I can check quietly without disrupting conversation.”

Exercise Comparison

During Water Aerobics:

Dexcom: Worried about transmitter
Libre: Single unit more secure
Both: Waterproof and reliable
Libre: Easier to protect

Financial Impact: Real Numbers

Martha tracked actual costs over three months:

Before Switch (Dexcom):

Monthly Expenses:

Sensors: $120
Transmitter (prorated): $30
Extra supplies: $15
Total: $165/month

After Switch (FreeStyle Libre):

Monthly Expenses:

Sensors: $45
No transmitter needed
Minimal supplies: $5
Total: $50/month

Annual Comparison:

Dexcom yearly: $1,980
FreeStyle Libre yearly: $600
Annual savings: $1,380

Martha’s Plans for Savings:

Extra medications covered
Dental work needed
Grandchildren’s gifts
Emergency fund boost

Challenges During the Switch

The Dexcom to FreeStyle Libre switch wasn’t without hurdles:

Challenge 1: Missing Continuous Data

Problem: Used to seeing glucose without action Solution: Set phone reminders to scan Result: Developed natural checking rhythm

Challenge 2: Different App Interface

Problem: Couldn’t find familiar features Solution: Spent hour exploring app Result: Now prefers simpler layout

Challenge 3: Family Monitoring Change

Problem: Son couldn’t watch continuously Solution: Taught him LibreLinkUp app Result: He checks when worried

Challenge 4: Report Differences

Problem: Doctor used to Dexcom reports Solution: Learned to generate similar data Result: Doctor happy with information

Tips for Smooth Transition

Based on her Dexcom to FreeStyle Libre switch, Martha advises:

Before Switching:

Calculate real costs – not just copays
Time it right – use all Dexcom supplies
Get family buy-in – they’ll need to adjust too
Download final Dexcom reports – keep records
Watch training videos – before first application

During Transition:

Be patient with yourself – learning takes time
Don’t compare constantly – each system has strengths
Set scanning reminders – until it’s habit
Keep some test strips – for peace of mind
Document questions – for follow-up appointment

After Switching:

Give it full month – before final judgment
Adjust settings – to match your needs
Share experiences – help others considering
Track savings – motivation to continue
Stay flexible – can always switch back

Three Months Later: Martha’s Reflection

What She Loves:

Significant cost savings
Simpler daily management
Smaller, discrete sensor
14-day wear time
Easy application process

What She Misses:

Continuous readings on phone
Predictive alerts
Share features robustness
Integration with insulin pump
Dexcom Clarity reports

Overall Verdict:

“The Dexcom to FreeStyle Libre switch was absolutely worth it for me. The savings alone justify any minor inconveniences, and honestly, I prefer the simplicity now.”

Who Should Consider Switching?

Martha’s experience suggests the Dexcom to FreeStyle Libre switch works well for:

Ideal Candidates:

✓ Cost-conscious seniors
✓ Those wanting simplicity
✓ People who check glucose regularly
✓ Anyone overwhelmed by alerts
✓ Seniors with arthritis (easier application)

May Want to Stay with Dexcom:

✗ Need continuous monitoring for safety
✗ Have hypoglycemia unawareness
✗ Rely heavily on predictive alerts
✗ Use integrated insulin pump
✗ Cost isn’t primary concern

Making Your Decision

Questions to consider for your Dexcom to FreeStyle Libre switch:

What’s your actual cost difference?
- Call Medicare for specifics
- Include all components
- Calculate annual savings
How do you use your CGM?
- Continuous monitoring needed?
- Or periodic checking sufficient?
- Alert dependence level?
What’s your comfort with change?
- Technology adaptation ability
- Family support available
- Time for learning curve
What matters most?
- Cost savings
- Simplicity
- Features
- Size/discretion

Expert Perspectives

Dr. Jennifer Park, Endocrinologist: “Both systems are clinically excellent. For patients like Martha who are proactive about checking and cost-sensitive, FreeStyle Libre is often the better choice.”

Robert Clark, CDE: “I’ve guided dozens through this switch. Success depends on setting realistic expectations and understanding the differences upfront.”

Your Switching Action Plan

Ready to explore the Dexcom to FreeStyle Libre switch?

Week 1: Research and Decide

Compare your actual costs
Review feature differences
Consult your healthcare team
Make informed decision

Week 2: Prepare for Switch

Get new prescription
Contact DME supplier
Order FreeStyle Libre
Plan transition timing

Week 3: Make the Switch

Use remaining Dexcom supplies
Apply first Libre sensor
Learn new system
Be patient with yourself

Week 4: Evaluate and Adjust

Assess your experience
Fine-tune settings
Calculate actual savings
Share your success

The Bottom Line

Martha’s Dexcom to FreeStyle Libre switch demonstrates that changing CGM systems is:

Financially rewarding for many
Easier than anticipated
Supported by Medicare
Reversible if needed
Worth considering

“Don’t let fear of change keep you from saving money,” Martha concludes. “If a 72-year-old grandmother can switch CGM systems successfully, anyone can. My only regret is not switching sooner!”

Final Thoughts

Whether motivated by cost, simplicity, or curiosity, the Dexcom to FreeStyle Libre switch is a viable option for many seniors. Martha’s journey shows that with preparation, patience, and support, transitioning between CGM systems can lead to both financial savings and simplified diabetes management.

“Every month when I see that extra $115 in my account, I smile,” Martha says. “That’s real money that makes a real difference in my retirement budget. And the FreeStyle Libre does everything I need it to do.”

Need Help with Your CGM Switch?

Our specialists can guide you through the Dexcom to FreeStyle Libre switch, verify your Medicare coverage, and ensure a smooth transition.

Call Now: 727-831-3729

Let Martha’s success story inspire your own CGM journey!