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Blood Glucose Monitor / CGM Devices

Blood glucose monitors and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices are tools used to measure and track blood sugar levels for individuals with diabetes. A standard blood glucose monitor requires a small finger-prick blood sample to provide a reading, while a CGM system uses a small sensor worn on the body to record glucose levels continuously throughout the day and night.

Most health insurance plans classify these devices as eligible medical equipment or diabetic supplies. Coverage usually includes reimbursement for the purchase or replacement of monitors and sensors, as well as necessary accessories such as test strips, lancets, and transmitters. The benefit may be capped by an annual dollar limit, a reasonable and customary price limit, or a replacement frequency (for example, one monitor every five years).

Access to accurate monitoring equipment helps individuals manage their diabetes effectively and avoid complications associated with unstable glucose levels.

Example:

If your plan covers 80 percent of eligible expenses up to $500 every five years and you purchase a CGM system costing $600, your insurer pays $480 and you pay $120.

What to Watch For:

Confirm whether your plan classifies CGM systems under diabetic supplies or durable medical equipment, as this can affect limits and replacement frequency. Some insurers require a physician’s prescription or pre-authorization before reimbursement. Always check whether replacement sensors and transmitters fall under the same limit or have their own sub-maximums.

Related Terms

Benefit

A benefit is the specific financial protection or coverage provided under an insurance policy. In health and dental insurance, a benefit refers to the payment or reimbursement made by the insurer for eligible medical, dental, or wellness expenses. Each benefit category - such as prescription drugs, dental services, vision care, or physiotherapy - outlines what is covered, how much the insurer will pay, and any applicable limits or conditions.

Benefit Period (Vision)

The benefit period for vision refers to how often your vision care coverage renews and allows you to make new claims for eligible expenses such as glasses, contact lenses, or eye exams. Unlike other benefits that reset each year, vision care often renews every two benefit periods, which can mean every 24 consecutive months rather than every calendar year.

Orthopedic Shoes / Custom Orthotics

Orthopedic shoes and custom orthotics are specialized footwear and inserts designed to support proper alignment, relieve pain, and improve mobility for individuals with foot, leg, or posture-related conditions. These items are often prescribed to correct biomechanical issues, provide additional cushioning, or accommodate deformities caused by medical conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, or plantar fasciitis.

Private Duty Nurse

A private duty nurse is a licensed nurse hired to provide one-on-one medical care to a patient in their home or hospital outside of standard public healthcare services. This specialized care is typically required for individuals recovering from surgery, managing chronic illness, or living with a serious medical condition that requires close monitoring or skilled nursing services. The nurse may perform duties such as administering medication, wound care, post-operative support, or palliative care under a physician’s supervision.

Health Insurance

Health insurance is a type of coverage that helps pay for medical and healthcare expenses not fully covered by Canada’s public health system. It protects individuals and families from the high cost of prescription drugs, medical services, and treatments that fall outside provincial or territorial government health plans. Health insurance can be obtained through an employer’s group benefits plan or purchased individually from a private insurer.

Relevant Plans

Plans that relate to Blood Glucose Monitor / CGM Devices

Alberta Blue Cross - Blue Assured - Basic

Alberta Blue Cross - Blue Assured - Basic

Can apply at anytime, at any age.

Alberta Blue Cross - Blue Assured - Enhanced

Alberta Blue Cross - Blue Assured - Enhanced

Can apply at anytime, at any age.

Alberta Blue Cross - Blue Assured - Enhanced+

Alberta Blue Cross - Blue Assured - Enhanced+

Can apply at anytime, at any age.

Alberta Blue Cross - Blue Assured - Premium

Alberta Blue Cross - Blue Assured - Premium

Can apply at anytime, at any age.

Have questions about your insurance coverage?

Our licensed advisors can help you understand your options and find the right plan for your needs.