Diabetes Device Choices
Overview
Sensor & Injections
Medtronic Sensor & Syringe
Alerts to minimize lows and highs with the option to link to a pump later.
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
Medtronic Sensor & 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.
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
Guardian 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 WebsiteSyringe and Vial
Understand your cost at your local pharmacy.
Insulin Cost OverviewFreestyle 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
Guardian Connect
Freestyle Libre 3
Glucose Testing Supplies
Sensors
Transmitter
Sensors
Glucose Testing Cost Estimate
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.
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.
Syringe and Vial
Syringe and Vial
Insulin Dosing Supplies
Syringe ~$30 (Monthly)
Insulin $5 to $500 (Monthly)
Syringe ~$30 (Monthly)
Insulin $5 to $500 (Monthly)
Insulin Dosing Cost Estimate
The total amount depends hugely on how much insulin you use and what your insurance covers.
The total amount depends hugely on how much insulin you use and what your insurance covers.