Introduction to the Freestyle Libre 3

The Freestyle Libre 3 is the latest continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system from Abbott. It is an updated version of the popular Freestyle Libre and Freestyle Libre 2 systems, offering several improvements while maintaining the same core features that have made the Libre line so successful.

The Libre 3 is a fully wearable CGM that uses a small sensor inserted under the skin to measure glucose levels in interstitial fluid. The sensor is connected to a small, round Bluetooth-enabled scanner that adheres to the skin over the sensor. Users simply scan the sensor with the scanner to get real-time glucose readings, trends, and direction arrows indicating where levels are headed.

Some of the key features and benefits of the Freestyle Libre 3 include:

Truly intermittently scanned CGM with 14-day sensor wear time. No fingersticks are required for calibration or diabetes treatment decisions.

Real-time glucose data accessible with a quick 1-second scan of the sensor. Scans can be done as often or as little as the user wants.

Automatic, real-time glucose alarms for high and low levels that can alert users anytime. An optional companion mobile app enables remote follower alerts as well.

Historical data and trends with up to 8 hours of glucose data storage in the sensor between scans.

Small, discreet, waterproof design for wearability and convenience.

No fingerstick blood tests required, reducing pain and test strip costs.

The Libre 3 aims to make glucose monitoring simple, accessible, and personalized for optimal diabetes management. With features like 14 day wear, optional real-time alarms, and unlimited scanning, it provides the flexibility and convenience that make CGM integration into daily life seamless.

Hardware and Components

The Freestyle Libre 3 system comes with several key hardware components:

The Sensor

The disposable sensor has a thin filament that sits just under the skin and measures glucose levels from interstitial fluid. The sensor is water-resistant, low profile, and can be worn discreetly on the back of the upper arm. It lasts up to 14 days before it needs to be replaced.

The Applicator

A spring-loaded applicator is used to quickly and easily insert the sensor under the skin. The applicator adheres the sensor securely and is then removed, leaving just the sensor behind.

The Reader Device

The handheld reader scans the sensor to get real-time glucose readings with a simple wave or push of a button. It has a touchscreen color display that is easy to read, even in sunlight. The reader is rechargeable and is the size of a small smartphone, making it portable.

Charging and Battery Life

The reader has a built-in rechargeable battery that lasts up to 7 days per charge. It charges via a USB cable that can plug into a wall adapter or computer. The reader takes about 90 minutes to fully charge. The sensor itself does not require charging or batteries.

Accuracy and Performance

The Freestyle Libre 3 offers best-in-class accuracy for a stand-alone continuous glucose monitor (CGM). Clinical studies show the Libre 3 is as accurate as fingerstick glucose meters, with a mean absolute relative difference (MARD) of 8.7% for adults and 9.9% for children aged 4-17 years old. This accuracy has been consistent across the 14-day wear period as well.

The Libre 3 has optional real-time alarms to alert users of high or low glucose levels. Users can customize their target glucose range and set high and low alerts at different thresholds. The sensor scans every minute and will alarm if glucose goes above or below the set levels.

One of the most convenient features of the Libre 3 is the 1-3 inch scan range, allowing users to simply wave the reader or smartphone over the sensor to get a current glucose reading. No more pressing down on the sensor or needing to remove clothing for scans. The Libre 3 can be scanned as frequently as every minute, providing real-time glucose data to users. This scan range and frequency is a major upgrade from the Libre 2 and gives Libre 3 users unparalleled access to their glucose trends.

Software and Apps

The Freestyle Libre 3 system is designed to work seamlessly with smartphone apps to view glucose readings, trends, and analytics. The key app is Abbott’s own LibreLink app, available for both iOS and Android devices.

LibreLink allows users to scan the Freestyle Libre 3 sensor with their smartphone camera to get current glucose readings. The app also stores historical data, allowing you to track your trends and patterns over days, weeks, and months. This makes it easy to see how factors like diet, exercise, medication, and lifestyle impact your glucose levels.

Some of the key features of LibreLink include:

Easy scanning of the sensor with your phone’s camera. Scans take less than 1 second.

Current glucose reading displayed prominently on the app’s dashboard.

Graphs showing glucose trends over 2, 8, and 24 hour periods.

Estimated HbA1c calculation based on readings over the last 90 days.

Ability to add notes to log food, medication, exercise and more. These can be overlaid on the glucose graphs.

Notifications for high and low glucose alerts.

Multi-device sync allowing you to seamlessly switch between smartphone and smartwatch.

Data sharing with care teams or other trusted individuals.

In addition to Abbott’s own app, the Freestyle Libre 3 is compatible with many popular third-party health apps. Diabetes management platforms like mySugr, Glooko, and Tidepool allow you to integrate Freestyle Libre 3 data with other health metrics for deeper analytics and insights. The open API architecture also enables developers to build custom solutions and apps tailored to user needs.

Overall, the comprehensive software ecosystem and app integrations make the real-time glucose data provided by the Freestyle Libre 3 even more powerful and useful for both individuals and healthcare providers. The ability to identify trends and patterns enables better decision making for diabetes management.

Cost and Availability

The Freestyle Libre 3 was just recently approved by the FDA in May 2022, so official pricing details are still emerging. However, we can expect the costs to be in line with previous versions.

The Freestyle Libre 2 currently retails for $75-100 for a 1 month supply of sensors, or $300-400 for a 3 month supply, without insurance. The reader itself costs about $70-80.

With insurance coverage, users generally pay less out of pocket. Many insurance plans cover a portion or all of the costs, with copays ranging from $0-75 monthly. Medicare also offers coverage options.

Compared to the Freestyle Libre 2, the Libre 3 is expected to cost about the same for the hardware, with sensors priced equivalently. The main difference is the elimination of the need for a separate reader device, since the Libre 3 sensors directly connect to smartphones.

The Libre 3 will be available through pharmacies or durable medical equipment suppliers that carry diabetes supplies. Sensors and readers can also be ordered online through vendors like Amazon.

Overall, while the Libre 3 will carry a similar price tag to previous versions, the built-in reader provides better value and convenience for users. Those with insurance coverage can expect manageable out-of-pocket costs. Uninsured users face high retail sensor prices, underscoring the importance of securing coverage.

User Reviews

The Freestyle Libre 3 has received positive feedback overall from real-world users. Here are some of the main pros and cons that have emerged:

Pros

Highly accurate and reliable readings. Many users say the Libre 3 is extremely accurate at tracking blood glucose levels compared to fingerstick meters. This gives them greater confidence in the results.

Low profile, comfortable to wear. The small, round sensor is comfortable to wear on the back of the arm for the 14 day sensor life. It doesn’t get in the way or require constant calibration.

Easy to use and intuitive. The smartphone app pairs easily with the sensor and provides clear data and trends. Most users say it’s very simple to set up, connect, and get insights from their results.

Alerts for highs/lows. Users appreciate the optional real-time alerts for hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia so they can take quick action. This provides peace of mind.

Longer 14 day sensor. The 2 week wear time between sensor changes is an improvement over the 10 day Libre 2.

Cons

Cost/lack of coverage. The biggest complaint is the high out-of-pocket cost, especially for those without full insurance coverage of the sensors. Additional costs add up over time.

Inaccurate when sugar levels are changing rapidly. Some users report inaccuracies during periods of rapid glycemic fluctuation, like after meals or exercise. Results can lag behind actual levels.

Required smartphone. Users must carry an NFC-enabled smartphone with them to get glucose data from the sensor, unlike some CGMs with standalone receivers or watches.

Occasional connection issues. A few people report intermittent connectivity issues between the sensor and smartphone that require a reset.

Overall, real-world users find the Libre 3 to be an excellent CGM option that gives them more data and control in managing their diabetes. When it comes to insurance coverage and rapid fluctuation periods, there are still some improvements desired. But for day-to-day use, it provides a positive experience.

Comparison to Other CGM Systems

The freestyle libre 3 sensor kit is one of the latest continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems on the market. How does it compare to competitors like the Dexcom G6 and G7? Here is an overview of some of the key differences:

Accuracy

The Libre 3 has been shown in studies to have accuracy that meets general CGM standards, with a mean absolute relative difference (MARD) of 8.8% in adults. This makes it comparable to the Dexcom G6 and G7 which also report MARD of around 9%. Both the Libre 3 and Dexcom use sensor readings taken every minute.

 Sensor Life

The freestyle libre 3 sensor kit lasts up to 14 days, while the Dexcom G6 and G7 last 10 days and 7 days respectively. The longer wear time of the Libre 3 makes it more convenient by reducing the frequency of sensor replacements.

Alarms/Alerts

A major difference is that the Dexcom G6 and G7 provide alerts and alarms for high/low glucose levels, whereas the Libre 3 does not have alarm capabilities. This allows the Dexcom to act more like a real-time CGM.

Price

The Libre 3 has a lower upfront cost at around $75 per sensor compared to $419 for a Dexcom G6 3-pack and $899 for a G7 3-pack. However, the Libre requires direct scanning while the Dexcom transmits data to a receiver or app.

User Experience

Both systems have accompanying mobile apps to view trends and analyze data. The Libre 3 requires users to actively scan the sensor, while the Dexcom provides automated, real-time readings sent wirelessly to a device. This gives the Dexcom more flexibility but may be less discreet.

Overall, the freestyle libre 3 sensor kit competitor well with the latest Dexcom CGMs, providing a more affordable option that still delivers accurate continuous glucose data. The choice comes down to each user’s specific needs and preferences around cost, alarms, and ease of use.

Lifestyle Considerations

The Freestyle Libre 3 offers several advantages for lifestyle and convenience compared to traditional fingerstick glucose monitoring. A major benefit is that the sensor can be worn continuously for up to 14 days, without the need to remove it at any time. This allows for seamless, hassle-free glucose monitoring 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Wearing the sensor continuously makes it incredibly convenient for activities like exercising, swimming, showering, and travel. The sensor is water-resistant enough to withstand showers, baths, swimming, and even sea water. You never have to worry about interrupting your glucose monitoring for daily activities or sports. The sensor and transmitter are low profile and comfortably wearable for exercise.

The 14-day wear time also makes travel much simpler. You can pass easily through airport security with the sensor on, without concern about running out of supplies. The long wear time reduces the amount of sensors needed when traveling or when convenient access to supplies may be limited.

Showering, exercising, swimming, and traveling – you name it – are all possible without impediment or limitation thanks to the 14-day continuous wear freestyle libre 3 sensor kit. This brings added freedom, flexibility, reliability, and convenience to glucose monitoring and diabetes management in all aspects of daily life.

Medicare Coverage for Freestyle Libre 3

The Freestyle Libre 3 was recently approved by the FDA in September 2022. As a brand-new product, Medicare coverage is still being established. Here is what we know so far about Medicare coverage for the Freestyle Libre 3 continuous glucose monitor:

 Coverage for Seniors Under Medicare Plans

Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) does not currently cover any continuous glucose monitors like the Freestyle Libre 3.

Medicare Advantage plans have the option to cover CGMs, but coverage varies by plan. Some Medicare Advantage plans may cover the Freestyle Libre 3, while others may not yet have updated their coverage since it is a newly approved device.

As of October 2022, Abbott reports they are in the process of obtaining Medicare coverage for the Freestyle Libre 3. They expect a coverage decision by early 2023.

If you have a Medicare Advantage plan that covers other Freestyle Libre CGM models, the plan will likely extend coverage to the freestyle libre 3 sensor kit as well. But verify with your plan first.

Requirements and Restrictions

The freestyle libre 3 sensor kit is only FDA approved for adults aged 18 and older. So Medicare would only cover it for senior beneficiaries, not children.

Continuous glucose monitors typically require a doctor’s prescription stating you meet the medical necessity criteria for a CGM system.

Other requirements may include needing to test blood sugar 4+ times per day using finger sticks, insulin use, and managing diabetes with an intensive insulin regimen.

Quantity limits may apply to the number of sensors covered per month or year.

In summary, Medicare coverage for the freestyle libre 3 sensor kit is still being established but should be available in 2023 for seniors who meet CGM coverage criteria under Medicare Advantage plans. Verify coverage with your specific Medicare plan before purchasing.

Conclusion

The freestyle libre 3 sensor kit is the latest continuous glucose monitoring system from Abbott that was approved by the FDA in May 2022. After reviewing the features and capabilities of the Libre 3, here is a summary of the main pros and cons as well as the future outlook for this CGM device.

Summary of the Libre 3

The Libre 3 has several notable improvements over the previous Libre 2 version. Key advantages of the Libre 3 include:

Fully wearable sensor and tiny size for discretion
No fingerstick calibration required
Real-time glucose readings sent automatically to your phone
Optional alarms for high and low glucose levels
14 day sensor wear time before replacement needed
Waterproof for showers and exercise

Downsides to consider with the Libre 3:

Still requires scanning to get readings rather than an automatic ongoing display
Accuracy is not as high as leading fingerstick meters
App connectivity can have occasional delays/interruptions
Alarm features are not as customizable as some competitor CGM systems

Future Outlook and Developments

The Libre 3 brings Abbott’s CGM technology clearly into the realm of real-time, around-the-clock glucose monitoring. With its improvements in connectivity, optional alarms, and streamlined form factor, the Libre 3 should continue gaining popularity and competing with Dexcom and other established CGM products.

Further software updates and enhancements are likely in the future to address any launch issues and expand the appsync connectivity stability. It remains to be seen whether Abbott will develop a fully implanted continuous monitor down the line, but for now the Libre 3 balances affordability and improved real-time accuracy for many diabetes patients.