Short answer: Medicare may cover a FreeStyle Libre system when it qualifies as a continuous glucose monitor and the beneficiary meets Medicare’s current CGM requirements. Coverage is based on the type of equipment and the person’s eligibility, not on the brand alone.
Original Medicare coverage
Medicare Part B may cover a continuous glucose monitor and related supplies, including sensors, when a qualified provider orders them. The equipment is handled under the durable medical equipment benefit.
Medicare’s current eligibility rules no longer require every applicant to use insulin several times per day or perform a fixed number of finger-stick tests. A person may qualify if the person takes insulin or has a documented history of problematic low blood sugar.
Eligibility and limits
Before ordering the CGM, the provider must evaluate the person and determine that Medicare’s requirements are met. The person or caregiver must receive enough training to use the monitor as directed. Continued coverage requires routine follow-up visits, which may be in person or through a Medicare-approved telehealth visit when allowed.
The receiver, reader, sensors, and other supplies must be billed correctly. A smartphone application by itself is not DME. Coverage can change when a person changes equipment or suppliers, so the supplier should verify the exact model and components.
Costs
After the Part B deductible, the beneficiary generally pays 20 percent of the Medicare-approved amount if the supplier accepts assignment. The person may pay more when a nonparticipating supplier does not accept assignment.
Medicare Advantage
Medicare Advantage plans cover qualifying CGMs but may require prior authorization, preferred brands, and network suppliers. Cost sharing can differ from Original Medicare.
What to do next
- Ask the provider whether the medical record supports the current CGM criteria.
- Confirm the exact monitor, reader, and sensor model to be ordered.
- Use a Medicare-enrolled supplier and ask whether it accepts assignment.
- Keep required follow-up visits to maintain coverage.
Sources
Last reviewed: August 2026. Medicare rules and plan benefits can change.