Continuous analyte measurement systems and systems and methods for implanting them

A method of determining a glucose level, comprising:

• providing glucose monitoring system including
• a data processing unit configured for mounting on a skin surface, the data processing unit including
• one or more processors,
• one or more memories coupled with the one or more processors,
• the one or more memories having a drift profile stored thereon, wherein the drift profile is time dependent,
• an RF transmitter/receiver coupled to the one or more processors, and
• a fixation element comprising an adhesive configured to secure the data processing unit to the skin surface;
• a glucose sensor including
• a proximal portion electrically coupled to the one or more processors of the data processing unit, and
• a distal portion configured to be inserted through the skin surface and in contact with an interstitial fluid,
• wherein the glucose sensor is configured to generate electrical signals indicative of levels of glucose in the interstitial fluid, and the glucose monitoring system does not require user-initiated calibration during a life of the glucose sensor extending between 3 and 14 days;
• causing the glucose sensor to extend through the skin surface such that the distal portion placed in contact with the interstitial fluid;
• receiving a signal from the glucose sensor;
• determining a drift correction factor based on the drift profile;
• determining a glucose level based on the signal from the glucose sensor and the drift correction factor;
• and
• transmitting the glucose level to a receiving device for display to a user.