Diabetes Device Choices
Overview
Sensor & Pump
Freestyle Libre 14 day & Tandem
These devices do not connect but they each have their merits. The Freestyle Libre is small and the Tandem is modern. The Tandem pump also allows you to bolus directly from a compatible iOS or Android smartphone.
The Freestyle Libre 14 day does not have high and low alerts. You 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 Libre 14 day & Tandem
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.
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 WebsiteTandem t:slim X2
Call Tandem and ask them about your coverage. Talk to your Doctor to get a prescription.
1-877-801-6901 Tandem 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.
Tandem t:slim X2
Medtronic InPen
Insulin Dosing Supplies
Pump
Charger
Insulin Cartridges
Infusion Sites
Insulin Dosing Cost Estimate
Startup $5 to $6,995
Monthly $20 to $200
Monthly $5 to $1260
The total cost depends on the amount of pens you use which is dependent on how much insulin you use.