Diabetes Device Choices
Overview
Sensor & Pump
Medtronic Sensor & Tandem Pump
With a pump and sensor you have a lot of manual control. The Tandem pump allows you to bolus directly from a compatible iOS or Android smartphone.
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.
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 & Tandem Pump
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 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.
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 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 WebsiteFreestyle 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 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 14 Day
Glucose Testing Supplies
Sensors
Transmitter
Sensors
Reader (1 time purchase)
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.
Widely covered. Provided by pharmacies. Price range; $0-$100/month. Often the cheapest and easier to access sensor.
Tandem t:slim X2
Insulin Pen
Insulin Dosing Supplies
Pump
Charger
Insulin Cartridges
Infusion Sites
Pen (thats it!)
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.