Diabetes Device Choices
Overview
Sensor & Injections
Freestyle Libre 14 day & 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. Syringe and vial insulin delivery is the most affordable option.
*The Freestyle Libre 14 day can be manually scanned to get data only when you want it.
Sensor & Injections
Dexcom G7 & Pen
If you don't like having stuff on your body but want glucose data at a glance, the Dexcom G7 comes factory-calibrated, with a shortened warm-up time, and requires no finger stick. Some pens have the ability to track 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/en/resources/getting-treatment/qualify-for-insurance/ for more resources.
Questions for your Doctor
Freestyle Libre 14 day & 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.
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 & 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.
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 WebsiteSyringe and Vial
Understand your cost at your local pharmacy.
Insulin Cost OverviewDexcom G7
Call Dexcom and ask them about your coverage. Talk to your Doctor to get a prescription.
1-888-738 3646 Dexcom 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
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.
Syringe and Vial
Insulin Pen
Insulin Dosing Supplies
Syringe ~$30 (Monthly)
Insulin $5 to $500 (Monthly)
Pen (thats it!)
Insulin Dosing Cost Estimate
The total amount depends hugely on how much insulin you use and what your insurance covers.
Monthly $5 to $1260
The total cost depends on the amount of pens you use which is dependent on how much insulin you use.