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Freestyle Libre CGM??

A

Alex_B

Well-Known Member
Messages
168
Type of diabetes
Type 1
Treatment type
Insulin
I've decided that if they deny me for a CGM next Wednesday when I go to my diabetes clinic then I'm going to self-fund for it (with my mums help) but before I do, is there anywhere I can buy the sensors maybe cheaper and not online? I'll get the starter pack obviously but 57 per sensor?? Bit expensive for one sensor? Or is 2? Help??
 
Alex_B said:
I've decided that if they deny me for a CGM next Wednesday when I go to my diabetes clinic then I'm going to self-fund for it (with my mums help) but before I do, is there anywhere I can buy the sensors maybe cheaper and not online? I'll get the starter pack obviously but 57 per sensor?? Bit expensive for one sensor? Or is 2? Help??
Click to expand...
On the Abbott site it is about £48 if you fill in the form to not pay VAT - as a TYPE 1 you do not need to pay VAT for it.
Personally I get them from my local Asda pharmacy for £44 (after filling in a VAT exemption form they give me)
 
And you don't need the starter pack, which includes the reader, if you have a smartphone. You can just buy the sensors and scan with your phone.
 
If you are in the UK, the cheapest option seems to be Asda pharmacy.
They do not keep them in stock. You have to preorder and they usually get them in within a couple of days.

When comparing costs, remember you do not need to pay VAT. Your diabetes team should be able to provide a VAT exception certificate.

I also recommend only buying one first time.
Some people get skin reactions or find the Libre is very inaccurate for them so don’t bother beyond their first sensor.

Bear in mind, Libre is not considered to be a CGM.
Typically, CGMs will alert when your BG is out of range or changing quickly. Libre will not do this. However, some people have pimped their Libre with Bluetooth widgets like the Miao Miao.
 
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