It seems that Abbott has a new kind of CGM ("FreeStyle Libre") that has been approved in Europe. According to this article: http://www.diabetesincontrol.com/articles/...etes-news/16850 the sensor is worn in the back of the upper arm, the sensor life is 14 days, and the sensor never needs calibration. The sensor does not push data to a receiver. Instead, if you want a reading you wave the receiver over the sensor and that updates it with current reading (up to the minute), historical readings, and trend.

No calibration means the sensor is inherently accurate like a fingerstick glucometer. It will be interesting to hear how well it works in practice.

When they had the Navigator here in the US, it was also tested and worn on the arm. So it's not surprising that they continued with that as the site.
That is very cool that it does not need to be calibrated.

As someone who lives alone, though, I can't imagine being able to insert into my arm by myself.

If it's accurate, I think this could be a real game changer. Can you imagine not having to do finger sticks? As for the arm placement, that might just be where it's been tested, similar to the Dexcom and Medtronic-approved abdomen sites. I wonder if insurance companies will handle it like sensors or like test strips. I'm sure it will be a while before we see it in the US though

If it only transmits readings when you wave the receiver near it, does it only alarm then too? We wouldn't be waving the receiver in our sleep, etc. What am I missing?

Good point. I wasn't thinking about alarms. That diminishes the value to me - even during the day getting an alarm is what keeps me in tighter control. I seldom look at the display between meals except when it alarms. Having to remember to check would not work well for me!

I agree about the alarms. That's half the value of CGM for me!

Same here.

Well, in any case, if it is to be approved soon in Europe, how many years for action in USA? For some years
we have been told that the Dexcom/Animas integration is just around the corner. Still waiting.

And yes, what good is a CGMS if it has no alarm? That is what makes it valuable.....to give info about
unexpected lows.

I just did a questionaire for DiaTribe and was asked about such a system. Worn on the arm, 14 days, no calibration. I am for it. I would maybe buy both the old ones with alarms and this one. My enlite is not accurate at night. If I sleep on it I get the reading of 40. When I measure it I am at 120 or so. Not good.