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Disclaimer: We are working on translating our site into other languages. If you encounter any issues with the translations, please email us at diabeteswise@stanford.edu.

This combo is simple, reliable, and incognito.

Next Steps

Meter

Meter

Because there are so many options, and they don't have huge differences - the best thing to do is see what options your insurance companies will cover. The best way to find that out is through your doctor.

Contact

If you have specific wants with a meter - like connecting to your phone, or your pump - the best place to start would be to google your question.

Walgreens

Insulin Pen

Insulin Pen

Ask your provider about a insulin pen prescription. Learn which is covered.

Contact

Insulin Pen Overview

Priorities

Comfort

  • Have to carry supplies
  • Nothing on your body

    • Active Lifestyle

  • Must pause activity to check blood sugar
  • No way to adjust long acting insulin for higher activity on the fly

    • Avoiding Highs and Lows

  • Meters don't give as much blood sugar data as sensors do
  • This combo requires a high level of engagement and effort to avoid highs and lows

    • Easy to Use

  • No info on blood sugar trends
  • Pens are faster and easier to use than syringes

    • Easy Insulin Dosing

  • You have to do the math to figure out your dose
  • More precise dosing than syringes

    • Fewer Fingersticks

  • Frequent fingersticks are unavoidable

    • Privacy

  • Pens and meters are hideable when not in use but visible when in use
  • Requires visible blood

    • Wisdom

    Hear what others who use this device combo have to say

    I do miss the Suspend Before Low feature of the 670G. I experience lows much more frequently with my current therapy.

    I prepare extra kits for specific things like road trips or longer runs.

    I have a small makeup bag in my purse with my pens and meter.

    Disclaimer: All prices are in USD and are estimates only.

    Cost

    Meter

    Meter

    Meter & Fingerpricker (1 time purchase)

    Strips & Supplies

    Glucose Testing Cost Estimate

    Startup $0 to $60

    Monthly $100

    There are lots of different meters out there. It's worth seeing which are covered by insurance - they will cover some of the cost of the strips. Often your doctor can give you a meter for free, worth asking.

    Insulin Pen

    Insulin Pen

    Pen (thats it!)

    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.

    Questions for your Doctor

    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.