Managing diabetes with Medicare can feel overwhelming, especially when you need expensive monitoring equipment like the FreeStyle Libre. But a major 2023 policy change made 1.5 million more patients eligible for coverage—here’s what you need to know about qualifying.
Key Takeaways
- Medicare Part B covers both FreeStyle Libre 3 and FreeStyle Libre 2 systems for eligible diabetes patients who use insulin or have problematic hypoglycemia history and meet FDA usage requirements
- Beneficiaries typically pay 20% coinsurance after meeting the $257 annual deductible in 2025
- A 2023 expansion made approximately 1.5 million more diabetes patients eligible for coverage, including those with Type 2 diabetes using insulin and individuals with problematic hypoglycemia
- Both a prescription for sensors and reader are required, plus recent diabetes management visit documentation
Managing diabetes with insulin can be overwhelming, especially when trying to monitor blood sugar levels throughout the day. The good news is that Medicare recognizes the importance of continuous glucose monitoring technology and provides coverage for qualifying beneficiaries who need these life-changing devices.
Medicare Covers Both FreeStyle Libre 3 and FreeStyle Libre 2 Under Part B
Medicare Part B classifies continuous glucose monitors like the FreeStyle Libre systems as durable medical equipment (DME). This classification means the devices fall under Part B coverage rather than Part D prescription drug benefits. Both the FreeStyle Libre 3 and FreeStyle Libre 2 systems receive full Medicare coverage for beneficiaries who meet the eligibility requirements with a valid prescription.
The coverage extends to all components of the system, including the sensors that attach to your body and the reader device that displays glucose information. Medicare.org provides detailed resources to help beneficiaries understand their coverage options and navigate the complex world of Medicare benefits for diabetes management.
FreeStyle Libre Medicare Eligibility Requirements
Medicare has established specific criteria that beneficiaries must meet to qualify for FreeStyle Libre coverage. These requirements ensure the devices go to patients who will benefit most from continuous glucose monitoring technology.
1. You Must Use Insulin or Have Problematic Hypoglycemia History
The primary requirement involves either current insulin use or a documented history of problematic hypoglycemia episodes. This includes multiple level 2 hypoglycemic events or at least one level 3 event. Medicare recognizes that these patients face the greatest risk from blood sugar fluctuations and benefit most from real-time glucose monitoring. Patients managing diabetes with other medications alone typically don’t qualify unless they have the specified hypoglycemia history.
2. Your Doctor Must Confirm Training and Write a Prescription
Healthcare providers must determine that you or your caregiver have received adequate training to properly use a continuous glucose monitor. The prescription must specifically include both the sensor components and the reader device to meet Medicare requirements. Your doctor will need to document this training and provide written confirmation that you understand how to operate the system safely and effectively.
3. Recent Diabetes Management Visit Required
Medicare requires a diabetes management evaluation within six months prior to starting CGM therapy. During this visit, your healthcare provider must confirm that you meet all coverage criteria and that continuous glucose monitoring is medically necessary for your specific situation. This recent evaluation ensures your diabetes management plan is current and appropriate for CGM integration.
Your Medicare Part B Costs for FreeStyle Libre
Understanding the financial aspects of FreeStyle Libre coverage helps beneficiaries budget for their diabetes management expenses. Medicare Part B follows standard cost-sharing rules for durable medical equipment.
20% Coinsurance After $257 Annual Deductible
Once you meet the 2025 Medicare Part B annual deductible of $257, you’ll pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for your FreeStyle Libre system. This applies to both the initial equipment and ongoing sensor replacements. If your DME supplier accepts assignment, they agree to accept Medicare’s approved payment amount and cannot charge you more than the standard coinsurance and deductible.
Medicare Advantage Plan Costs May Vary
Medicare Advantage plans must provide at least the same coverage as Original Medicare, but your specific out-of-pocket costs may differ. Some Medicare Advantage plans offer enhanced benefits that could reduce your coinsurance or provide additional diabetes management support. Contact your plan directly to understand your specific cost-sharing requirements for continuous glucose monitoring equipment.
Current FreeStyle Libre Models Medicare Covers
Abbott has updated their FreeStyle Libre product line, and Medicare coverage reflects these changes. Understanding which models are currently available helps ensure you receive the most up-to-date technology.
FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus and FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus Are Current Models
The FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus and FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus represent the current generation of Abbott’s continuous glucose monitoring systems. Both models offer 15-day sensor wear time and provide real-time glucose readings. The FreeStyle Libre 3 system automatically sends readings to your smartphone every minute without requiring scanning, while the FreeStyle Libre 2 system provides readings through scanning with optional alarms for high or low glucose levels.
Previous Models Discontinued September 30, 2025
The original FreeStyle Libre 2 and FreeStyle Libre 3 sensors were discontinued on September 30, 2025. This transition ensures patients have access to the most advanced technology with improved accuracy and features. If you were using an older model, you needed to work with your healthcare provider to transition to one of the Plus versions before the discontinuation date.
How to Get Your FreeStyle Libre Prescription Covered
The process of obtaining Medicare coverage for your FreeStyle Libre system involves several important steps. Following this process ensures smooth approval and delivery of your diabetes management equipment.
1. Schedule a Diabetes Management Visit
Contact your healthcare provider to schedule a diabetes management evaluation. During this appointment, discuss your current insulin regimen, any hypoglycemia episodes you’ve experienced, and how continuous glucose monitoring could improve your diabetes control. Your provider will assess whether you meet Medicare’s coverage criteria and document this evaluation in your medical records.
2. Obtain Prescription for Sensors and Reader
Your healthcare provider must write a prescription that specifically includes both the FreeStyle Libre sensors and the reader device. The prescription should clearly state your diabetes diagnosis, current insulin use or hypoglycemia history, and medical necessity for continuous glucose monitoring. This detailed prescription ensures Medicare recognizes all components as covered medical equipment.
3. Use Medicare-Participating DME Supplier
Choose a durable medical equipment supplier that participates in Medicare and accepts assignment of your claims. This ensures you pay only the standard 20% coinsurance after meeting your deductible. Many suppliers offer convenient home delivery services for ongoing sensor replacements, making it easier to maintain consistent glucose monitoring.
April 2023 Expansion Made 1.5 Million Diabetes Patients Eligible
Medicare significantly expanded continuous glucose monitor coverage in April 2023, recognizing the growing evidence of CGM benefits for diabetes management. This expansion added approximately 1.5 million Medicare beneficiaries to the pool of eligible patients, particularly those with Type 2 diabetes who use insulin and individuals with problematic hypoglycemia. The policy change reflects evolving medical understanding of how continuous glucose monitoring can improve outcomes for a broader range of diabetes patients, not just those with Type 1 diabetes.
This expansion represents Medicare’s commitment to covering diabetes management technologies that demonstrate clear health benefits. The change allows more seniors to access real-time glucose monitoring, potentially reducing emergency room visits related to severe hypoglycemia and improving overall diabetes control through better insight into blood sugar patterns.