For people living with diabetes, managing blood sugar has traditionally meant finger sticks multiple times daily or replacing continuous glucose monitors every week or two. That routine just changed for patients in southwest Iowa.
Clarinda Regional Health Center now offers Eversense 365, the first FDA-approved continuous glucose monitor that lasts an entire year with a single implanted sensor. Dale Stogdill, ARNP, performs the procedure right here in Clarinda, eliminating the need to travel to Omaha or Des Moines for this advanced diabetes care technology.
What Makes Eversense 365 Different
Traditional continuous glucose monitors require sensor replacements every 10 to 15 days. Over a year, that adds up to more than 20 replacements. Eversense 365 reduces that to once annually.
The system uses a small sensor—about the size of a vitamin—placed just under the skin of the upper arm during a brief outpatient procedure. Once positioned, the sensor sends glucose readings every five minutes to a removable transmitter worn on the skin. The transmitter communicates with a smartphone app, displaying current levels, daily trends, and alerts when glucose moves too high or too low.
Patients receive hundreds of glucose readings daily without repeated finger sticks.
The removable transmitter offers flexibility other systems don't. Patients can take it off temporarily for swimming, contact sports, formal events, or simply to take a break. The implanted sensor stays in place, ready to resume monitoring when the transmitter goes back on.
Built-In Safety Features
The transmitter vibrates when glucose levels become concerning. This alert system works even when a phone is dead, in another room, or out of reach—providing an extra layer of safety that gives many patients greater confidence managing their condition.
For those who've experienced skin irritation from adhesive patches used with other continuous glucose monitors, Eversense offers relief. Because the sensor sits beneath the skin rather than requiring constant adhesive application and removal, many patients find it gentler on sensitive skin.
Who Benefits Most
Adults with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes who qualify for continuous glucose monitoring may be candidates. The system works particularly well for patients using insulin who need detailed information about glucose fluctuations throughout the day.
Those tired of weekly sensor changes or dealing with adhesive-related skin problems often find Eversense addresses their specific frustrations.
Every patient's situation differs, so conversations with healthcare providers help determine whether this technology fits individual needs.
Why Continuous Monitoring Matters
A finger-stick blood sugar test captures one moment in time. Continuous glucose monitoring shows the complete story—where levels have been, where they are now, and where they're headed.
This detailed view reveals how specific foods affect blood sugar. One breakfast might keep glucose steady while another causes significant spikes. Exercise, stress, illness, medications, and sleep all influence glucose levels in ways a few daily finger sticks can't capture.
For healthcare providers at the regional health center, weeks or months of glucose trends provide far more useful information than a handful of spot checks. This data helps determine whether medications work appropriately and when treatment adjustments make sense.
Many patients also experience fewer episodes of dangerously low blood sugar because alerts warn them before levels become severe.
The Procedure
The sensor insertion happens during a straightforward outpatient appointment at Clarinda Regional Health Center. Local anesthetic numbs the upper arm area. A small incision allows placement of the sensor just beneath the skin, then the incision is closed.
The procedure doesn't take long, and most patients resume normal activities quickly. Once the area heals, the transmitter goes on over the implanted sensor and begins communicating with the smartphone app.
One simple procedure provides an entire year of glucose monitoring.
Bringing Advanced Care Closer to Home
Patients in rural communities shouldn't have to drive hours to access newer medical technology. Clarinda Regional Health Center continues expanding services that improve community health without requiring long-distance travel.
Whether advanced imaging, specialty clinics, rehabilitation services, or now one of the newest continuous glucose monitoring systems available, the hospital Clarinda Iowa residents rely on keeps adding capabilities that matter. It's part of the health center's mission of Advancing Exceptional Care for southwest Iowa healthcare needs.
Taking the Next Step
If you have diabetes and wonder whether continuous glucose monitoring fits your care plan—or if you already use a CGM and want to learn about Eversense 365—start by talking with your primary care provider.
You can also contact Clarinda Regional Health Center directly at 712-542-8330. The team can answer questions about the technology, discuss insurance coverage, explain the procedure in detail, and help determine whether Eversense 365 suits your healthcare needs.
This technology simplifies diabetes management while improving overall health, and it's available right here in southwest Iowa.
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