Diabetes Device Choices
Overview
Sensor & Injections
Freestyle Libre 14 day & Pen
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. Some pens have the ability to track insulin doses on a smartphone.
*The Freestyle Libre 14 day can be manually scanned to get data only when you want it.
Sensor & Inhaler
Dexcom G7 & Afrezza
If you don't like having stuff on your body but want glucose data at a glance, the Dexcom G7 comes factory-calibrated and requires no finger stick. Paired with the Afrezza inhaler, this is one of the more discreet combinations.
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 Libre 14 day & 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.
Is the Freestyle Libre waterproof?
Sensor is water-resistant in up to 1 metre (3 feet) of water for a maximum of 30 minutes.
Dexcom G7 & Afrezza
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
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 WebsiteInsulin Pen
Ask your provider about a insulin pen prescription. Learn which is covered.
Insulin Pen OverviewDexcom G7
Call Dexcom and ask them about your coverage. Talk to your Doctor to get a prescription.
1-888-738 3646 Dexcom 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
Freestyle Libre 14 Day
Dexcom G7
Glucose Testing Supplies
Sensors
Reader (1 time purchase)
Sensors
Receiver (1-time purchase) - not required
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 less than $40
These prices vary by Insurance. 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.