Managing diabetes effectively needs constant glucose monitoring, which can be cumbersome. Glucose monitoring smartwatches revolutionize this, offering a non-invasive way to track blood sugar levels.

The Advancement of Glucose Monitoring Watches
Glucose monitoring smartwatches use the latest technology to provide continuous, real-time glucose readings by measuring the glucose in body fluids such as sweat or interstitial fluid. They sync these readings with smartphone apps or dedicated devices, allowing users to easily track their glucose levels without the need for finger pricks. Some models also incorporate general fitness and health tracking features, such as heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and activity monitoring, making them versatile tools for overall health and wellness management.

Top Glucose Monitoring Smartwatches

Dexcom G6 Watch
Features: Integrates seamlessly with the Dexcom G6 transmitter, displaying glucose readings every five minutes. It alerts the user to high and low trends, providing actionable insights without needing to scan or test interstitial fluid manually.
Cost: While the initial cost is significant, Dexcom offers various assistance programs to help reduce the price, potentially lowering the cost for eligible patients through certain insurance plans or grants.

Eversense Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) System
Features: Eversense stands out by offering a long-term implantable sensor that can last up to 90 days, paired with a smart transmitter that sends real-time glucose data to your smartphone or smartwatch.
Cost: The Eversense CGM system, including the smartwatch integration, can be obtained through a patient assistance program that may significantly reduce costs based on insurance coverage and eligibility.

Apple Watch with One Drop Integration
Features: While the Apple Watch itself does not measure glucose directly, it can integrate with the One Drop glucose monitoring app, where users can log their levels manually and receive AI-driven predictive insights and reminders.
Cost: Apple frequently offers promotional collaborations where purchasing a new device comes with subscription services like One Drop at a reduced rate—occasionally even as low as $1 for the first month of services.

Fitbit Ionic with Glucose Monitoring
Features: Fitbit has partnered with Dexcom as well, allowing users of the Ionic model to view their glucose data directly on the watch face via the Dexcom app.
Cost: Fitbit and Dexcom sometimes provide offers for a free Fitbit Ionic when signing up for a subscription plan for glucose monitoring, significantly reducing the upfront costs.

Accessing These Technologies
Many manufacturers and healthcare providers recognize the importance of accessible health monitoring technologies and offer various programs to help reduce costs:
Insurance Coverage: Many insurance companies cover part of the costs of CGM systems, including smartwatches, especially if there’s demonstrated medical necessity.
Grants and Subsidies: Look for diabetes care grants provided by health organizations, which can offer financial assistance or subsidized pricing, potentially reducing the cost.
Manufacturer Assistance Programs: Companies like Dexcom provide financial assistance programs to help patients access their technology at reduced cost.