Diabetes Device Choices
Overview
Sensor & Inhaler
Eversense & Afrezza
The Eversense is implanted under the skin, so you can hide your devices easier.
*You will need an iPhone to use the Eversense sensor.
Sensor & Injections
Freestyle Libre 3 & Syringe
If you don't like having stuff on your body but want glucose data at a glance, the Freestyle Libre is the smallest sensor option.
*Libre 3 is the most current model, now with alerts. Libre 1 and 2 may still be available to you. Ask your provider.
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
Eversense & 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.
Freestyle Libre 3 & Syringe
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.
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
Eversense
Either call the phone number here to ask about getting started or fill out the form that is linked here to get started.
1-844-736 7348 Eversense WebsiteAfrezza
Call MannKind and ask them about your coverage. Talk to your Doctor to get a prescription.
1-844-323-7399 Afrezza WebsiteFreestyle Libre 3
Call Freestyle Libre and ask them about your coverage. Talk to your Doctor to get a prescription.
1-855-632 8658 Freestyle Libre WebsiteSyringe and Vial
Understand your cost at your local pharmacy.
Insulin Cost OverviewAdditional Resources
By Priorities
Active Lifestyle
Avoiding Highs and Lows
Comfort
Easy Insulin Dosing
Easy to Use
Fewer Fingersticks
Privacy
Cost & Coverage
Eversense
Freestyle Libre 3
Glucose Testing Supplies
Sensors
Transmitter (1 time purchase & Rechargeable)
Sensors
Glucose Testing Cost Estimate
Startup Bridge Program $99.
This is a trial program and there are eligibility requirements that should be considered prior.
Eversense is covered by select insurers, including Cigna and Medicare.
Startup $0 to $130
Monthly$0 to $70
Prices will vary based on insurance coverage. If you don't have any coverage this is the cheapest sensor.
Afrezza
Syringe and Vial
Insulin Dosing Supplies
Inhaler & Cartridges (Monthly)
Syringe ~$30 (Monthly)
Insulin $5 to $500 (Monthly)
Insulin Dosing Cost Estimate
Widely covered. Price range; 0-$99/month depending on insurance coverage. $35/month for medicare and commercial insurance plans.
The total amount depends hugely on how much insulin you use and what your insurance covers.