Diabetes Device Choices
Overview
Sensor & Injections
Dexcom G6 & Pen
If you don't like having stuff on your body but want glucose data at a glance, the Dexcom G6 comes factory-calibrated and requires no finger stick. Some pens have the ability to track insulin doses on a smart phone.
Sensor & Injections
FreeStyle Libre 2 & Bigfoot Unity
Bigfoot Unity is a smart insulin dosing system comprised of Bigfoot smartpen caps (for short- and long-acting insulin pens), Abbott's FreeStyle Libre 2 CGM, a mobile app, and a blood glucose meter made by AgaMatrix.
Unity provides recommendations for both short- and rapid-acting insulin doses. Both pen caps have screens that display slightly different information, including blood glucose level (you can scan your Libre 2 with the pen cap to see your mg/dl!), timing of last dose, and recommended doses.
Priority: Overall
Next Steps
You're going to do great on the devices you choose
Talk to your provider to get a prescription. Advocate for yourself with a list of reasons why you believe it is best for your lifestyle.
Talk to the device companies about the device you want and if your insurance will cover it. They can help with this.
Many insurance companies require documentation of different qualifications before approving diabetes device coverage. every insurance company is different but some common qualifications include checking your blood sugar 4-6 times per day or having frequent low blood sugars. Understanding what qualifications are necessary for device coverage before starting the approval process can make things a lot easier.
Visit https://diabeteswise.org/resources/getting-treatment/qualify-for-insurance/ for more resources.
Questions for your Doctor
Dexcom G6 & Pen
Can I try this before I commit to it?
A lot of provider offices have sample devices you can touch and feel to get a sense of how they work. Some offices even have a trial device you can use for week to see how it works for you.
FreeStyle Libre 2 & Bigfoot Unity
Is the Freestyle Libre waterproof?
Sensor is water-resistant in up to 1 metre (3 feet) of water for a maximum of 30 minutes.
How do I order supplies?
Participating in the Bigfoot Unity program requires an agreement between Bigfoot Biomedical and your health care provider. Ask your doctor if they are contracted with Bigfoot Unity!
Questions for your insurance
Many insurance companies require documentation of different qualifications before approving diabetes device coverage. Every insurance company is different, but some common qualifications include checking your blood sugar 4-6 times per day or having frequent low blood sugars. Understanding what qualifications are necessary for device coverage before starting the approval process can make things a lot easier.
Talk to the device companies
Dexcom G6
Call Dexcom and ask them about your coverage. Talk to your Doctor to get a prescription.
1-888-738 3646 Dexcom WebsiteInsulin Pen
Ask your provider about a insulin pen prescription. Learn which is covered.
Insulin Pen OverviewFreestyle Libre 2
Call Freestyle Libre and ask them about your coverage. Talk to your Doctor to get a prescription.
1-855-632 8658 Freestyle Libre WebsiteBigfoot Unity
Call Bigfoot Unity and ask them about your coverage. Talk to your Doctor to get a prescription.
551-244-3668 Bigfoot Unity WebsiteAdditional Resources
By Priorities
Active Lifestyle
Avoiding Highs and Lows
Comfort
Easy Insulin Dosing
Easy to Use
Fewer Fingersticks
Privacy
Cost & Coverage
Dexcom G6
Freestyle Libre 2
Glucose Testing Supplies
Sensors
Transmitter
Receiver (1 time purchase)
Sensors
Receiver (1 time purchase)
Glucose Testing Cost Estimate
Startup $80 to $239
Monthly $35 to $105
These prices vary by Insurance. Many insurers support the G6 Dexcom. It may be covered under durable medical goods or a pharmacy benefit.
Startup $200 to $404
Monthly $108 to $321
Libre 2 is covered by Medicare and most private insurers. Prices will vary based on coverage. If you don't have any coverage, this is the cheapest sensor.
Insulin Pen
Bigfoot Unity
Insulin Dosing Supplies
Pen (thats it!)
Pen caps
Needles
Sensors
Test strips
Lancets
Alcohol swabs
Insulin Dosing Cost Estimate
Monthly $5 to $1260
The total cost depends on the amount of pens you use which is dependent on how much insulin you use.
Monthly mail-order package includes all the supplies needed, for a regular subscription price or insurance-covered copay with no upfront costs.