Diabetes Device Choices
Overview
Sensor & Inhaler
Freestyle 14 day & Afrezza
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. Paired with the Afrezza inhaler, this is one of the more discreet combinations.
*The Freestyle Libre 14 day can be manually scanned to get data only when you want it.
Sensor & Injections
Dexcom G6 & Medtronic InPen
If you don't like having more than one device on your body but want glucose data at a glance, the Dexcom sensor connects to the Medtronic InPen to track blood sugar and insulin doses on a smartphone.
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
Freestyle 14 day & Afrezza
Is the Freestyle Libre waterproof?
Sensor is water-resistant in up to 1 metre (3 feet) of water for a maximum of 30 minutes.
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.
Dexcom G6 & Medtronic InPen
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
Freestyle Libre 14 Day
Call Freestyle Libre and ask them about your coverage. Talk to your Doctor to get a prescription.
1-855-632 8658 Freestyle Libre WebsiteAfrezza
Call MannKind and ask them about your coverage. Talk to your Doctor to get a prescription.
1-844-323-7399 Afrezza WebsiteDexcom G6
Call Dexcom and ask them about your coverage. Talk to your Doctor to get a prescription.
1-888-738 3646 Dexcom WebsiteMedtronic InPen
Call Medtronic and ask them about your coverage. Talk to your Doctor to get a prescription.
1-888-350-5440 Medtronic WebsiteAdditional Resources
By Priorities
Active Lifestyle
Avoiding Highs and Lows
Comfort
Easy Insulin Dosing
Easy to Use
Fewer Fingersticks
Privacy
Cost & Coverage
Freestyle Libre 14 Day
Dexcom G6
Glucose Testing Supplies
Sensors
Reader (1 time purchase)
Sensors
Transmitter
Receiver (1 time purchase)
Glucose Testing Cost Estimate
Widely covered. Provided by pharmacies. Price range; $0-$100/month. Often the cheapest and easier to access sensor.
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.
Afrezza
Medtronic InPen
Insulin Dosing Supplies
Inhaler & Cartridges (Monthly)
Insulin Dosing Cost Estimate
Widely covered. Price range; 0-$99/month depending on insurance coverage. $35/month for medicare and commercial insurance plans.
Monthly $5 to $1260
The total cost depends on the amount of pens you use which is dependent on how much insulin you use.