Understanding the Cost of Dexcom Stelo: Is It Worth the Investment?

Managing Type 2 diabetes is not just about watching your diet or taking medication—it's about using the right tools to monitor your health effectively. The Dexcom Stelo Glucose Biosensor System, combined with the HealD X Program, offers a cutting-edge solution for continuous glucose monitoring along with personalized care, holistic lifestyle changes, and expert coaching. This powerful integration ensures more effective diabetes management. However, like any advanced technology, it comes with a price tag. So, is Dexcom Stelo worth the investment? Let’s break down the costs...

Breaking Down the Cost of Dexcom Stelo

The Dexcom Stelo Glucose Biosensor System comes with upfront and ongoing costs, but its value in improving health and managing diabetes effectively justifies the investment.

Upfront Costs:

1. Dexcom Stelo Starter Kit:

   • The starter kit, including the biosensor, costs $99, which also includes a one-month subscription to Heald’s personalized care plan. This makes it more affordable compared to other CGMs.

2. Biosensor:

   • Each biosensor lasts up to 14 days and is responsible for collecting and transmitting real-time glucose data directly to your smartphone.

3. Overpatch:

   • Included in the starter kit, the overpatch secures the biosensor in place and is particularly helpful for active users.

Ongoing Costs:

• You’ll need about 24 biosensors annually, which costs approximately $1,200/year. These ongoing expenses are offset by the health benefits and personalized insights provided through Heald’s platform.

Insurance Coverage and Savings

Many insurance plans cover part of the cost of CGMs like Dexcom Stelo. Heald’s care team can help you navigate your insurance options to ensure you get the best possible coverage, making Dexcom Stelo more affordable. Even with insurance, copays and deductibles may apply, but Heald’s personalized budgeting advice can help you manage these costs effectively.

How Dexcom Stelo Compares to Other CGMs

To understand whether Dexcom Stelo is worth the investment, it’s helpful to compare it with other CGMs.

Dexcom Stelo vs. Freestyle Libre:

• Price: Freestyle Libre is typically cheaper upfront, but it requires users to manually scan the sensor for glucose readings. Dexcom Stelo offers real-time continuous monitoring without scanning, providing more convenience for those who want to stay on top of their glucose levels throughout the day. When paired with Heald’s personalized insights, Dexcom Stelo provides a more complete and convenient solution for diabetes management.

• Features: Dexcom Stelo’s predictive alerts and integration with Heald’s AI-driven platform provide advanced monitoring and personalized health recommendations, which are particularly helpful for proactive management.

Dexcom Stelo vs. Medtronic Guardian:

• Price: Medtronic Guardian costs similarly, but it requires additional calibration equipment, making Dexcom Stelo’s calibration-free setup more convenient. When paired with Heald’s AI coaching, Dexcom Stelo offers a user-friendly experience that is both efficient and cost-effective.

• Features: Both devices offer high accuracy, but Dexcom Stelo’s integration with Heald’s personalized care plans makes it a superior choice for those looking for a more comprehensive approach to managing Type 2 diabetes.

Dexcom Stelo vs. Eversense:

• Price: Eversense offers a long-term 90-day sensor but requires a surgical procedure for implantation, adding to the cost and inconvenience. Dexcom Stelo’s non-invasive setup and integration with Heald’s holistic care model make it a simpler and more accessible choice for users.

• Features: While Eversense’s sensor lasts longer, Dexcom Stelo’s ease of use and comprehensive features—particularly its seamless integration with Heald—provide a strong balance between simplicity and long-term health management.