GREAT NEWS: THE SD Insulin Pumpers WEBSITE IS ONLINE!!! FOR NOW, TO ACCESS
THE SITE, YOU MUST TYPE OUR FULL SITE URL (sdinsulinpumpers.blogspot.com) IN THE
ADDRESS BOX AT THE TOP OF THE SCREEN. WE SUGGEST YOU BOOKMARK THE SITE TO MAKE
IT EASIER TO ACCESS. THANK YOU AGAIN to Rick Miles who spent many hours getting
it online. Additional updates are planned.
Don't Miss the MAY meeting of
the San Diego Insulin Pumpers!!!
THIS MONTH: Charles "C.C." King, is going to speak about some of
the exciting new diabetes research being funded by DRC. DRC's mission is to
connect donors with early-career scientists enabling them to perform
peer-reviewed, novel research designed to prevent and cure type 1 diabetes,
minimize its complications and improve the quality of life for those living with
the disease.
LAST MONTH: Two representatives from United Healthcare
spoke on how to select the Medicare coverage that will pay for Pump and CGM
supplies. Several important requirements for a smooth transition to coverage for
supplies were outlined. Before joining Medicare, make an appointment to see your
doctor and request lab work for a Fasting Blood Sugar test and a C Peptide test.
Medicare requires a blood test with BG’s under 225 and a C Peptide test before
they will reimburse pump supplies. They require proof of Type 1 Diabetes, even
if we have had the disease for over 50 years.
Reimbursement of our CGM
supplies is a little trickier requiring homework on our part. We must determine
and select the Medicare plans that cover CGM supplies. Developing a relationship
with an Insurance Agent with the insurance company you select is the best way to
get the correct answers about which or if their plans cover CGM devices. The
Agents are better trained about plans than a customer service rep through an 800
number.
Agents will be able to help you select an appropriate insurance
plan if you have a list of your medical priorities, along with prescription,
medical device and doctor requirements when you call. Plans that are most likely to
cover CGM products are Medicare HMO plans with Part C coverage. Many of these
plans cover CGM products under the Prescription benefit, not the Durable Medical
benefit as with traditional health insurance plans. Most traditional Medicare
A, B, and D plans with a Medigap supplemental plan generally do not cover CGM
products. CMS.gov is a good source of information on
Medicare.
Pre-Meeting
Dinner (Souplantation): Several of us get together about 5:30 before each
meeting for dinner, and all are welcome! Anyone who would like a bite of dinner
before the meeting can join us this month at the Souplantation Restaurant in
Kearny Mesa, 7095 Clairemont Mesa Boulevard (just east of 805), 858-715-6824.
Please be ready to leave the restaurant by 6:45 and proceed to Sharp so that our
speakers and non-dining members are not delayed.
As always, significant
others and any friends and family supporters are always welcome at the meeting.
Our meetings are held the 2nd Monday of every month.
