Key takeaways
The FreeStyle Libre 3 system is a prescription-only continuous glucose monitor (CGM) that allows people with diabetes to monitor their blood glucose levels.
The system uses only one type of sensor, the FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensor, which usually costs around $241 per month without insurance.
Ways to lower the cost of FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensors include using a SingleCare prescription discount card and comparing prices at different pharmacies.
The FreeStyle Libre 3 is a prescription-only product that continuously monitors blood glucose levels in people 4 years of age and older with diabetes. The only ongoing cost for the system is the FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensors that are applied to the back of the upper arm every 15 days. These sensors send real-time blood glucose readings to the FreeStyle Libre 3 reader, which is a one-time purchase, or to a smartphone app, which is free. Without insurance, the average retail price for two FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensors, a 30-day supply, is $241, but there are ways to save money.
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Is FreeStyle Libre 3 covered by insurance?
Yes, about 95% of private health insurance plans cover FreeStyle Libre systems, according to the manufacturer, Abbott. However, health insurance plans, Medicare plans, and Medicaid plans all differ, and some may or may not cover the FreeStyle Libre 3 reader and the FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensors. Coverage typically requires that certain criteria be met and that your condition be regularly monitored by a healthcare provider. If your insurance does cover it, your cost depends on your plan. Contact the insurance company for prescription coverage and copay specifics.
RELATED: Does Medicare cover FreeStyle Libre?
How much does FreeStyle Libre 3 cost without insurance?
The average monthly price of FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensors is $241. For one year, the price without insurance adds up to just under $3,000. Prices vary by pharmacy.
Although there are no low-cost generic versions of the FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensor, there are other continuous glucose monitor (CGM) systems available. These include Eversense, Dexcom G, and Guardian personal CGM system sensors. While all these devices are effective options for glucose monitoring, Dexcom and FreeStyle Libre are some of the most popular systems. Remember, sensors only work with one specific CGM system. They cannot be used interchangeably between CGM systems.
RELATED: Dexcom vs. Freestyle Libre: Differences, similarities, and which one is better for you
Compare FreeStyle Libre 3 prices to related CGMs |
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|---|---|---|---|
| CGM name | Price without insurance of brand-name CGM | SingleCare price | Savings options |
| Freestyle Libre 3 Plus sensor | $241 per 2 sensors (30 days of use) | $162 per 2 sensors (30 days of use) at Kroger | See latest prices |
| Dexcom G6 CGM System | $557 per 3 sensors (30 days of use) | $325 per 3 sensors (30 days use) at Kroger | See latest prices |
| Dexcom G7 CGM System | $579 per 3 sensors (30 days of use) | $332 per 3 sensors (30 days use) at Kroger | See latest prices |
| Guardian 4 Glucose Sensor | $2,453 per 3 boxes of 5 sensors/box (105 days of use) | $1,895 per 3 boxes at Kroger | See latest prices |
| Eversense E3 | $3,310 per 2 boxes | $2,934 per 2 boxes at Kroger | See latest prices |
How to get FreeStyle Libre 3 without insurance
CGMs may be a convenient and safe option for those with diabetes to monitor their blood glucose levels. They eliminate the need for multiple finger pricks and provide real-time, continuous blood glucose data. They also send notifications or alarms for low or high-glucose events that may require immediate medical attention. CGMs, including the FreeStyle Libre 3, can cost more than traditional blood glucose monitors. Fortunately, there are ways you can lower the FreeStyle Libre cost without insurance. Here are three ways to save money on FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensors:
1. Use a SingleCare prescription discount card
Using a SingleCare discount card can lower the FreeStyle Libre 3 cost per month from $241 to as low as $162 at Kroger. The SingleCare discount price will vary at other pharmacies, but the discount coupon can be used at over 35,000 pharmacies nationwide. Members save even more, and it’s free to sign up.
2. Compare pharmacy prices
The FreeStyle Libre price can vary from pharmacy to pharmacy. The SingleCare website and app make it easy to compare prices at pharmacies near you.
3. Discuss other continuous monitoring systems with your healthcare provider
While CGMs are convenient for blood sugar monitoring, they can be expensive without insurance coverage. Talk to your healthcare professional about competitors’ CGM systems that may cost less than the FreeStyle Libre 3. Also, traditional fingerstick blood glucose monitoring systems cost diabetes patients significantly less than CGMs. Your healthcare professional can help you determine which blood glucose monitoring product is best for you.
- Cost & coverage, Abbott
- Glucose monitors, Medicare Coverage Database (2024)
- Continuous glucose monitors, The diaTribe Foundation (2024)
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