[Diabetes-Talk] G5 question
Jeanette Kutash
kutash-jm at comcast.net
Tue Feb 14 20:31:44 UTC 2017
Hey, it is good to know they can get it for me at less money. I needed one
yesterday so I took, the plunge and found a pharmacy that could order it,
(it was more expensive), but not the price insurance would have charged).
As of an hour ago I can now test again and I don't have to worry about my
husband who needs to be more vigbilant than I. We need to applaud the
Independence Market for stocking that item because I am sure other people
have experienced my situation. The pharmacy said they never ordered these
before, and only one other person had gotten one. I know that person, and
told the pharmacist she and I were impressed with their responsiveness.
Things happen for a reason. I have been meaning to get on this list and this
was just the catalyst that did it for me. Thanks for all your help.
Jeanette
-----Original Message-----
From: Diabetes-Talk [mailto:diabetes-talk-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of
Bridgit Kuenning-Pollpeter via Diabetes-Talk
Sent: Tuesday, February 14, 2017 9:15 AM
To: 'Diabetes Talk for the Blind'
Cc: Bridgit Kuenning-Pollpeter
Subject: Re: [Diabetes-Talk] G5 question
So sorry you're having this problem. I'm really not trying to argue with
you. I just know that I've never bought my Prodigy through a pharmacy. It
seems like purchasing through the Independence Market may be the best option
for you. It's just $50.
Bridgit
-----Original Message-----
From: Diabetes-Talk [mailto:diabetes-talk-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of
Jeanette Kutash via Diabetes-Talk
Sent: Tuesday, February 14, 2017 1:35 AM
To: 'Diabetes Talk for the Blind' <diabetes-talk at nfbnet.org>
Cc: Jeanette Kutash <kutash-jm at comcast.net>
Subject: Re: [Diabetes-Talk] G5 question
Prodigy does not accept scripts from doctors to sell to consumers. If you
talk to them they tell you the list of spharmacies you are supposed to be
able to get the device from. They don't even have a place where consumers
can order. The consumer section only has articles about how good the device
is. It's all right. I will get one locally through the one pharmacy that
says they can order it and worry about it another day.
Jeanette
-----Original Message-----
From: Diabetes-Talk [mailto:diabetes-talk-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of
Bridgit Kuenning-Pollpeter via Diabetes-Talk
Sent: Monday, February 13, 2017 10:24 PM
To: 'Diabetes Talk for the Blind'
Cc: Bridgit Kuenning-Pollpeter
Subject: Re: [Diabetes-Talk] G5 question
When I got my Prodigy, I did not go through a pharmacy. I think I went
directly through Prodigy. It's been so long ago now, but I definitely did
not go through a pharmacy. Have you tried having your doctor send the script
directly to Prodigy or your insurance company?
Bridgit
-----Original Message-----
From: Diabetes-Talk [mailto:diabetes-talk-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of
Jeanette Kutash via Diabetes-Talk
Sent: Monday, February 13, 2017 3:24 PM
To: 'Diabetes Talk for the Blind' <diabetes-talk at nfbnet.org>
Cc: Jeanette Kutash <kutash-jm at comcast.net>
Subject: Re: [Diabetes-Talk] G5 question
Didn't work. I had a script, and the CVS here and the one I use for other
scripts can't get it.
Jeanette
-----Original Message-----
From: Diabetes-Talk [mailto:diabetes-talk-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of
Bridgit Kuenning-Pollpeter via Diabetes-Talk
Sent: Monday, February 13, 2017 4:06 PM
To: 'Diabetes Talk for the Blind'
Cc: Bridgit Kuenning-Pollpeter
Subject: Re: [Diabetes-Talk] G5 question
If a CVS in one city or state provides talking meters and supplies, than all
CVS locations should; they are a franchise and therefore uniform. Same with
any other franchised pharmacy. You need to have a doctor write a script for
a talking meter, then insurance should honor the request. Usually it's not a
problem with a doctor's script, but if they still do not supply one, the
doctor can appeal it. The biggest thing is to get your doctor to write a
script for the Prodigy Voice and strips.
Sorry you're having a difficult time with this. Hope you can figure it out.
Bridgit
-----Original Message-----
From: Diabetes-Talk [mailto:diabetes-talk-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of
Jeanette Kutash via Diabetes-Talk
Sent: Monday, February 13, 2017 2:50 PM
To: 'Diabetes Talk for the Blind' <diabetes-talk at nfbnet.org>
Cc: Jeanette Kutash <kutash-jm at comcast.net>
Subject: Re: [Diabetes-Talk] G5 question
You may agree with him, but in the area where I live most pharmacies I have
contacted cannot get the talking glucometers (including Prodigy voice) at
all. That is why I asked my question. Here the CVS pharmacies cannot get it.
The places (three) where I get my different prescriptions cannot get the
strips or the meters. And this is just if I agree to pay. Being on Medicare
they require that I get my meter from one of two places in the country. And
in the state I live in so far I have found one pharmacy that can and will
order the talking glucometer and strips at full price. I am sure this is the
way I will have to go, and I think it is great for those of you who have
found pharmacies that can get them for you and you are young enough that
Medicare doesn't disallow you from getting them paid for by your secondary
insurance, but some of us are really having problems just getting meters. I
did the research around here for over six months before I contacted this
list, and even today I spent three hours on the phone asking questions and
trying to get answers. I did not write this request for help without doing
the research. I am thrilled thatsome of you have found insurance companies
that will cover them, or pharmacies that can get them, but there is a
problem for those of us who have not.
Jeanette
-----Original Message-----
From: Diabetes-Talk [mailto:diabetes-talk-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of
Ladd, Kim (DBVI) via Diabetes-Talk
Sent: Monday, February 13, 2017 2:47 PM
To: 'Diabetes Talk for the Blind'
Cc: Ladd, Kim (DBVI)
Subject: Re: [Diabetes-Talk] G5 question
I agree with Tom.
Glucometers, strips, lancets and supplies are sold at most pharmacies or
through numerous mail-order companies. You do not need a prescription from a
doctor to buy a glucometer and strips, but without a prescription you will
have to pay 100% of the costs. To get a glucometer, the testing strips, the
alcohol pads and lancets paid for, or at least paid for at 80%, your
physician needs to write a prescription. The prescription does not have to
specifically state the name of a meter, but if the physician does write the
specific name of the meter, such as the Prodigy Voice, on the prescription,
it will be a smoother process. You would then take the prescriptions to a
local pharmacy to order the glucometer, strips and supplies. Most major
pharmacies such as Walgreens, CVS, and Rite Aid stock, or can order, the
Prodigy products. Smaller pharmacies can usually order the supplies with
advanced notice. You could also call a medical supply company, and have the
glucometer and supplies mailed to their home. The medical supply company
takes care of billing the insurance company.
Most coordinated care insurance programs and dual-eligibles (those that have
both Medicare and Medicaid) usually have no or very low co-payment for their
diabetes supplies. If you only have regular Fee-For-Service Medicare, then
Medicare covers the items at 80%, meaning you will have a 20% co-pay. If you
have Medicare and a secondary insurance, the secondary insurance usually
pays for the 20% co-pay amount, therefore you would have no co-pay amount
that they are responsible for. Unfortunately, the insurance coverage system
is complicated and varies depending on the type of insurance that you have.
The only way to determine the amount that you will be responsible to pay
for, and the brand of talking glucometer and supplies that are covered, is
to call the toll-free phone number of your insurance company (located on the
back of their insurance card or on their website) and ask about coverage for
audible glucometers and testing supplies. If your insurance company says
that they do not cover an audible glucometer, find out why and then your
physician needs to appeal that decision with the insurance company. It needs
to come from the physician because the insurance company will require the
physician to complete a medical necessity form to override their claim.
Kim Ladd, RN, BS, CPHQ
Diabetes Educator
Virginia Rehabilitation Center for the Blind & Vision Impaired
-----Original Message-----
From: Diabetes-Talk [mailto:diabetes-talk-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of
Tom Ley via Diabetes-Talk
Sent: Monday, February 13, 2017 2:37 PM
To: diabetes-talk at nfbnet.org
Cc: TALey at ups.com
Subject: Re: [Diabetes-Talk] G5 question
Hi Jeanette,
Welcome.
I use the Prodigy Voice meter by Prodigy Diabetes. You may buy it directly
from Prodigy at www.prodigymeter.com, or you can buy it directly from the
National Federation of the Blind Independence Market by calling (410)
659-9314. Note, there are two models of Prodigy meters, you want to make
sure your prescription specifically says Prodigy Voice. ** do not order or
purchase the Prodigy Autocode ** it is less expensive but lacks many key
accessibility features.
I've bought the Prodigy Voice meter through the NFB, but I've also had
success having my health insurance purchase the meter. I have United Health
Care, and my Prescription Benefit Manager is CVS.
If you are on Medicare, you must use one of the Medicare approved providers
I'm pretty sure, unless you are on a Medicare Advantage plan.
The Prodigy Voice meter is well under $100, others may have a different
price, but I think something like $70.
It is sad your husband's insurance states they will not cover a talking
meter. That is simply not possible. They must cover talking meters when it
is medically necessary, as described by your doctor.
Tom
-----Original Message-----
From: Diabetes-Talk [mailto:diabetes-talk-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of
Jeanette Kutash via Diabetes-Talk
Sent: Monday, February 13, 2017 2:23 PM
To: 'Diabetes Talk for the Blind' <diabetes-talk at nfbnet.org>
Cc: Jeanette Kutash <kutash-jm at comcast.net>
Subject: Re: [Diabetes-Talk] G5 question
Hello. I just subscribed to this list, though I have considered doing so
for a long time. My questions are these. What meters do those of you who
are totally blind use, where do you get them, how much do you pay, which
insurances do you know of that will cover them or not, and if your meter
becomes nonfunctional before the five-year time period Medicare says you
must have one before they will approve it, where do you go to try to get it
serviced or replaced?
Why, you ask, do I have so many questions? Because my meter malfunctioned
after a year and a half, the company that sells them says they do not sell
to clients directily, just to approved companies, because my husband's
insurance company will not cover any talking meters, and because locally I
have found only one pharmacy which can get them for me if I want to pay
full price (much less than the price Medicare wishes to charge, and if that
pharmacy goes out of business I guess I'm totally stuck.
Thanks for any help.
Jeanette Kutash
-----Original Message-----
From: Diabetes-Talk [mailto:diabetes-talk-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of
Jamie Gurganus via Diabetes-Talk
Sent: Monday, February 13, 2017 1:44 PM
To: 'Diabetes Talk for the Blind'
Cc: Jamie Gurganus
Subject: Re: [Diabetes-Talk] G5 question
Hi! How is the baby doing?
I just came from a visit with my diabetic educator to review my blood sugars
and go over my issues with the pump. I think I almost have it down. We
figured out where my confusion was and practiced going through the menu. I
also have the Animas rep visiting me on Wednesday, because I am having
issues with the infusion sets. For some reason, the Insets don't go in
properly and leak on me. I have given up using them for fear of having
another 500 blood sugar. I hadn't had one that high since going on the
Dexcom almost three years ago. My Dexcom kept alarming me in the middle of
the night that I was high, I would give a bolus and then wait. I should
have gotten out of bed and checked my blood sugar, but I didn't. By
morning, I was over 500 and couldn't give any more insulin due to the
Insulin on Board feature being on. Fortunately, my husband uses a Novapen,
so I was able to take 20 units to get it down quickly. It still took all
morning for that to happen. And, I had my daughter turn off the IOB feature
for now.
So, I am using the Inset 30, but I can't twist around enough to insert one
in my backside. So, I am trying the Contact D that is the little metal
thumbtack looking thing with a pigtail. I hope it works. I wish I could
continue using the Ultraflex set that I used for years with my Accucheck
Spirit, but they may not be in stock in the near future. So, I need to
figure out how to make the Animas products work for me. I really like
working with Animas, and they have been so helpful with sending me
replacement sets when I go through three just to get one to insert
correctly. I'm not sure what I'll do when I run out of Inset 30's and have
just the box of Insets left though. I ordered a three month supply with two
boxes of 30's and one of the Insets. Since they can't accept a return, I
can't order new sets until I am almost out of the three month supply thanks
to my insurance. I'll see what the rep says on Wednesday.
I did get discouraging news today from my Dexcom supplier. Insurance won't
pay for an upgrade to the G5 until my receiver is out of warranty in August.
And, since I just replaced my transmitter on Feb. 3, I can't even get the
G5 transmitter. So, I guess I'll do what I am doing now for six more
months. I really wanted to be more independent with the Dexcom than I am
now. I have to rely on my kids too much, and their busy schedules has me
planning when to do a quick blood sugar to calibrate it or change the
sensor. Insurance companies really cause us a lot of headaches, but I know
that we can't afford to be without them.
Take care. I hope Duncan is doing well and home with you.
Jamie
-----Original Message-----
From: Diabetes-Talk [mailto:diabetes-talk-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of
Bridgit Kuenning-Pollpeter via Diabetes-Talk
Sent: Monday, February 13, 2017 8:37 AM
To: 'Diabetes Talk for the Blind' <diabetes-talk at nfbnet.org>
Cc: Bridgit Kuenning-Pollpeter <bkpollpeter at gmail.com>
Subject: Re: [Diabetes-Talk] G5 question
Jamie,
How are things going with the pump? I can still call you at some point if
you wish, things are still just a little hectic around here. Is the prime
and rewind going better? Let me know if I can do anything else or answer
other questions. Will do my best.
Bridgit
-----Original Message-----
From: Diabetes-Talk [mailto:diabetes-talk-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of
Jamie Gurganus via Diabetes-Talk
Sent: Monday, February 13, 2017 6:03 AM
To: 'Diabetes Talk for the Blind' <diabetes-talk at nfbnet.org>
Cc: Jamie Gurganus <jamielgurganus at gmail.com>
Subject: Re: [Diabetes-Talk] G5 question
Tom,
Thanks! This does seem like it can be managed! I have my high alert
set at 180, because I feel awful if it is in the 200's. So, mine does go
off more than usual, but I do watch what I eat. I will get it all figured
out, just like the Vibe. I'm still working on mastering that!
Jamie
-----Original Message-----
From: Diabetes-Talk [mailto:diabetes-talk-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of
Tom Ley via Diabetes-Talk
Sent: Sunday, February 12, 2017 7:21 PM
To: diabetes-talk at nfbnet.org
Cc: TALey at ups.com
Subject: Re: [Diabetes-Talk] G5 question
Hi Jamie,
Glad you had success with your upgrade request, and very quickly, it seems.
At church I make sure I plug my ear buds into the iPhone, even though I may
not have them in my ears, to prevent unexpected alarms and Voice Over
announcements disrupting the people around me. The alerts still play but
just through the ear buds, not on the iPhone speaker. This also works when
sleeping. I think the below 55 alert always plays over the speakers, even if
you have your ear buds plugged in, the same way the alarm clock on the
iPhone works. But, if you are really 55, you need to be disrupted (smile).
That is a serious low, at least for me.
The alarms options such as sound and vibrate, sound only, etc. on the Dexcom
G5 app can be changed any time, as well as the level when the alarm is
triggered. , and this is separately controlled for each type of alarm. I
think all of us probably have our alarms configured differently, to fit our
lifestyles and diabetes health and safety needs. So, you will need to work
with the alarm settings over the first few days or weeks to find what works
for you.
One time I chose to set my high blood glucose alert to 220 to avoid so many
disruptions from the alarms. That worked to prevent so many alarms, but my
A1C was not as healthy when it was next measured. So I lowered it back. I
decided it was up to me to behave differently to keep the alarms from going
off, as if that wasn't obvious to everyone. Sometimes though we just need a
break from having to think like a pancreas!
Hope this was helpful.
Tom
-----Original Message-----
From: Diabetes-Talk [mailto:diabetes-talk-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of
Jamie Gurganus via Diabetes-Talk
Sent: Sunday, February 12, 2017 8:53 AM
To: 'Diabetes Talk for the Blind' <diabetes-talk at nfbnet.org>
Cc: Jamie Gurganus <jamielgurganus at gmail.com>
Subject: [Diabetes-Talk] G5 question
Hi all! My insurance has approved an upgrade to the G5, since I really want
to be able to input my own blood sugars via the phone app. However, I am
quite concerned about the negative reviews that I am reading about regarding
the inability to silence the alarms. From what I read, it is with the
latest update that took away the mute feature for the alarms. As much as I
want to be able to independently manage my Dexcom, is it worth having the
alarms going off with no way to silence them at night or in church or
meetings. Thanks for your experiences. I may consider staying with the G4
unless they change the alarms. I can't close the app during church or
meetings like many do, since I need the Dexcom to notify me of lows that I
don't feel anymore.
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