My Dexcom purchase

Yesterday I met with the Dexcom representative and actually bought the unit.

The 'system' (receiver, transmitter, charger, cables, software) was $375, and the first 5 sensors cost $175. Total cost $550.

Officially the 5 sensors will give me values for 15 days. However I'm currently wearing a sensor that I first started on Monday and it's still working fine. So if I get an average of 7 days per sensor I have enough for about 5 weeks.

Now there are definitely aspects of this device that I don't like. But when it works it gives me great results. For example, if I'm about to drive I can look at the value and if it's stable and between 120-160 then I feel comfortable getting into the car without testing.

I agree with the Dexcom representative that Dexcom is committed to CGM devices, that's all they do right now. Whereas Minimed is really all about pumps, and they use the CGM device more as an accessory for the pump. I know this is over simplifying things, but the pricing models are very different.

I'll post more about this decision later. I'm rushing off to an all day Code Camp at Microsoft.

I found a very useful slideshow that compares the Dexcom and Minimed devices. It's written by John Walsh and Ruth Roberts authors of the excellent book Pumping Insulin. You can find the slideshow on the Diabetes Mall forums.

I need to point out that I also decided to buy some shares in Dexcom. Despite my interest in seeing the company do well, I'll continue to be upfront about the pros and cons of the system.

Update: I had posted the wrong location for the comparison slideshow. You can find the presentation here. Sorry.

Labels: CGM, Dexcom, Minimed, technology

posted by Bernard @ 7:17 AM