Diabetes Device Choices
Overview
Sensor & Pump
Medtronic Sensor & Medtronic Pump
The Medtronic sensor and pump communicate with each other, so there's no need to keep track of a separate sensor receiver.
Sensor & Pump
Medtronic Sensor & Omnipod
Omnipod is the only tubeless pump option. With a pump and sensor you have a lot of manual control.
Sensor & Pump
Dexcom G6 & Tandem
The Tandem and Dexcom G6 can be connected, so you have one less thing to carry. Also, Tandem has a program called Control IQ that works with the Dexcom G6 to reduce your basal when it expects a low or increase your basal when it expects a high blood sugar. Control IQ also gives automatic correction doses when needed.
The Tandem pump allows you to bolus directly from a compatible iOS or Android smartphone.
Priority: Avoiding Highs and Lows
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 & Medtronic 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.
Medtronic Sensor & Omnipod
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 & 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.
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 WebsiteMedtronic 630G
Call Medtronic and ask them about your coverage. Talk to your Doctor to get a prescription.
1-888-350-5440 Medtronic WebsiteGuardian 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 WebsiteOmnipod
Call Omnipod and ask them about your coverage. Talk to your Doctor to get a prescription.
1-800-591-3455 Omnipod WebsiteDexcom G6
Call Dexcom and ask them about your coverage. Talk to your Doctor to get a prescription.
1-888-738 3646 Dexcom 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 WebsiteAdditional Resources
By Priorities
Active Lifestyle
Avoiding Highs and Lows
Comfort
Easy Insulin Dosing
Easy to Use
Fewer Fingersticks
Privacy
Wisdom
I was on a regular pump and it was over five years old so my doctor said I was a good candidate for it. There’s nothing I would change. I love it so much but my favorite thing is it prevents the really low lows.
In 6 months with the pump for only the last 3.5 weeks my A1C has come down 3 full percentage points! A lot of this is just being more aware of what my sugar is doing and trends and being able to accurately dose for meals and activities at the push of a button!
Control IQ is keeping an eye on whether my blood sugar is climbing or dropping and making smart adjustments to my insulin to keep me in range as much as possible.
Cost & Coverage
Guardian Connect
Guardian Connect
Dexcom G6
Glucose Testing Supplies
Sensors
Transmitter
Sensors
Transmitter
Sensors
Transmitter
Receiver (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.
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 $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.
Medtronic 630G
Omnipod
Tandem t:slim X2
Insulin Dosing Supplies
Pump
Insulin Cartridges
Infusion Sets
Pods
Reader
Insulin
Pump
Charger
Insulin Cartridges
Infusion Sites
Insulin Dosing Cost Estimate
Widely covered for insulin-dependent type 1 and type 2. Pump can be provided by pharmacy, DME, or directly through Medtronic Diabetes. Price range; $0-$8,574 to start and $0-$300/Month. Price range varies depending on insurance coverage.
Startup $5 to $1260 Monthly
Omnipod is now covered by Medicare and Medicaid as well as most private insurers.
Startup $5 to $6,995
Monthly $20 to $200