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 & Inhaler
Medtronic Sensor & Afrezza
Alerts to minimize lows and highs with the option to link to a pump later.
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.
Medtronic Sensor & Afrezza
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.
How can I get insurance approval for Afrezza?
If you have health insurance: visit Beyond Type 1 for more information on how your provider can send a prescription to the pharmacy that Mannkind works closely with, UBC Pharmacy:
UBC Pharmacy LLC
4700 N Hanley Rd Ste B
Saint Louis, MO 63134
NPI: 1962978858
Fax: 866-750-9260
Phone: 844-323-7399
Anyone in the United States can use this pharmacy to fill an Afrezza prescription.
If you don't have health insurance: visit Beyond Type 1 for more information on Mannkind's patient assistance program.
For more information on cost: visit Mannkind - Paying for Your Afrezza.
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 OverviewGuardian Connect
Call Medtronic and ask them about how much it will cost with your insurance coverage. Talk to your Doctor to get a prescription.
1-800-646 4633 Medtronic WebsiteAfrezza
Call MannKind and ask them about your coverage. Talk to your Doctor to get a prescription.
1-844-323-7399 Afrezza WebsiteAdditional Resources
By Priorities
Active Lifestyle
Avoiding Highs and Lows
Comfort
Easy Insulin Dosing
Easy to Use
Fewer Fingersticks
Privacy
Cost & Coverage
Dexcom G6
Guardian Connect
Glucose Testing Supplies
Sensors
Transmitter
Receiver (1 time purchase)
Sensors
Transmitter
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 $69 to $206
Monthly $32 to $97
These prices vary by Insurance. If you call Medtronic they will start a process to check exactly how much your costs will be. Generally Medtronic pumps and sensors are covered by private insurance and medicare. It may be covered under durable medical goods or a pharmacy benefit.
Insulin Pen
Afrezza
Insulin Dosing Supplies
Pen (thats it!)
Inhaler & Cartridges (Monthly)
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.
Widely covered. Price range; 0-$99/month depending on insurance coverage. $35/month for medicare and commercial insurance plans.