- βReal-time CGM saved an estimated CAD $2,237 per person over 30 years compared to scan-based CGM
- βPatients gained nearly 0.35 additional quality-adjusted life-years through better blood sugar control and fewer complications
- βAutomatic alerts reduced dangerous low blood sugar episodes and the fear of hypoglycemia
| Journal | Journal of comparative effectiveness research |
| Year | 2025 |
| Authors | Willis, Nilsson, Alshannaq |
| PMID | 40990066 |
What Was Studied β and Why It Matters
People with Type 2 diabetes who use insulin need to check their blood sugar regularly to stay safe. Two types of wearable sensors can help: real-time continuous glucose monitors (rt-CGM), which send automatic alerts when sugar levels go too high or low, and intermittently scanned CGM (is-CGM), which only display readings when you actively wave a reader or phone over the sensor.
Real-time monitors cost more upfront, so researchers in Canada wanted to know: is the higher price actually worth it over the long run? This 2025 study, published in the Journal of Comparative Effectiveness Research, used a detailed computer model to simulate 30 years of health outcomes and costs for insulin-treated Type 2 diabetes patients under each approach.
What the Research Found
The results clearly favored real-time CGM. Over a 30-year period, switching from a scan-based sensor to a real-time sensor was projected to:
- Save approximately CAD $2,237 per person in overall healthcare costs
- Add 0.346 quality-adjusted life-years β a meaningful gain in both length and quality of life
- Reduce dangerous low blood sugar episodes (hypoglycemia) and the fear that comes with them
- Lower the risk of serious complications such as blindness, kidney disease, nerve damage, amputation, and heart disease
Yes, the real-time devices cost about CAD $3,867 more in sensor purchases over 30 years. But the money saved by avoiding hospitalizations, surgeries, and treatments for complications more than covered that difference. The researchers tested their model 18 different ways β in 14 of those tests, rt-CGM was both healthier and cheaper. In the remaining four, it still offered strong value by every standard measure used in Canadian healthcare policy.
What This Means for Patients
If you have Type 2 diabetes and use insulin, this research suggests that upgrading to a real-time CGM could protect both your health and your finances over time. The automatic alerts are particularly valuable β they warn you before blood sugar reaches a dangerous level, even while you sleep, without requiring any action on your part.
When choosing or replacing your CGM supplies, it is worth comparing both device types carefully. MDS Diabetes carries a range of CGM options and can help you understand what is available and compatible with your current routine, so you can have an informed conversation with your healthcare provider.
Important Caveats
This study used a simulation model rather than a direct head-to-head clinical trial, so the findings are projections based on assumptions. The authors recommend more real-world comparative studies to confirm these results. Always discuss device changes with your diabetes care team before switching.
Bottom Line
A rigorous Canadian analysis found that real-time continuous glucose monitors are likely to save money and improve health outcomes compared to scan-based CGM for insulin-treated Type 2 diabetes β making a strong case for broader insurance coverage and wider patient access to rt-CGM technology.