Technology has transformed diabetes management over the past decade. From continuous glucose monitors that eliminate the need for finger sticks to insulin delivery systems that automatically adjust doses, these innovations are helping people with diabetes achieve better control with less burden.
Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGM)
A continuous glucose monitor is a wearable device that measures glucose in the fluid just below the skin (interstitial fluid) every 1–5 minutes, providing real-time glucose readings, trends, and alerts without the need for repeated finger pricks.
Components: A small sensor inserted just under the skin (worn for 7–14 days depending on device), a transmitter that sends data wirelessly, and a receiver (or smartphone app) that displays readings.
Popular CGM devices: Dexcom G7, Freestyle Libre 3, Medtronic Guardian, Abbott Lingo, and Stelo (the first OTC CGM for T2D).
Key CGM Metrics
| Metric | Target (Most Adults) | What It Means |
|---|---|---|
| Time in Range (TIR) | >70% (70–180 mg/dL) | % of time glucose is in target range |
| Time Below Range (TBR) | <4% (<70 mg/dL) | % time with low glucose |
| Time Above Range (TAR) | <25% (>180 mg/dL) | % time with high glucose |
| Coefficient of Variation (CV) | <36% | Glucose variability |
| GMI (Glucose Management Indicator) | Estimated A1C equivalent | A1C estimation from CGM data |
Insulin Pumps
An insulin pump (CSII — Continuous Subcutaneous Insulin Infusion) is a small device worn externally that delivers insulin continuously through a thin tube (infusion set) inserted under the skin. It replaces the need for multiple daily injections. Benefits include:
- More precise insulin delivery with programmable basal rates
- Easier correction and meal boluses
- Reduced hypoglycemia risk with modern systems
- Improved A1C and time in range
Popular pumps include the Tandem t:slim X2, Omnipod 5, and Medtronic 780G.
Automated Insulin Delivery (AID) / Closed-Loop Systems
The most advanced technology integrates a CGM, insulin pump, and control algorithm into an automated insulin delivery system. The algorithm reads CGM data and automatically increases, decreases, or suspends insulin delivery to keep glucose in range. This "artificial pancreas" technology has been transformative, particularly for Type 1 diabetes.
🤖 Game Changer: Clinical trials show that closed-loop AID systems increase time in range by 10–15 percentage points and dramatically reduce hypoglycemia risk compared to multiple daily injections, with minimal additional patient burden.
Smart Insulin Pens
Connected insulin pens track injection timing, dose, and type. They interface with smartphone apps and CGMs to calculate dose recommendations, track insulin-on-board, and share data with healthcare providers. Examples include the NovoPen 6 and Companion Medical InPen.
Key Takeaways
- CGM eliminates most finger sticks and provides real-time glucose trends and alerts
- Time in Range (70% of time between 70–180 mg/dL) is the key CGM target
- Insulin pumps offer more precise delivery than injections
- Closed-loop AID systems automatically adjust insulin and significantly improve control
- Endocrinologists guide device selection, setup, and ongoing optimization
Our Team Manages Diabetes Technology
Our providers are experienced with insulin pumps, CGMs, and advanced diabetes technology. Book with any member of our team:
Book an Appointment → or call 832-968-7003