May Meeting 2016

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.