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    • 1 hour, 50 minutes ago
      KCR likes your comment at
      Do you know how to test for ketones? Please share more in the comments.
      None of the specialists I’ve seen have suggested, recommended or prescribed methods for doing this in the lovely 40 years I’ve been T1D. My 80th birthday is the summer. It will officially be half of my life.
    • 3 hours, 48 minutes ago
      Derek West likes your comment at
      Do you know how to test for ketones? Please share more in the comments.
      I test when I have unexpected, or stubbornly high blood glucose that just won't go down. I also test when I feel sick. Testing, for me, involves putting urine on a strip, either by peeing directly or dipping the strip into urine. I may use about 2 or 3 strips in a year. When I test positive, I increase my insulin dosage to a "sick day" level, which can be anywhere from 125% dosage to 400%. I usually start with small increases in dosage, and work my way up until my blood glucose levels even out.
    • 8 hours, 23 minutes ago
      Marty likes your comment at
      Do you know how to test for ketones? Please share more in the comments.
      I test when I have unexpected, or stubbornly high blood glucose that just won't go down. I also test when I feel sick. Testing, for me, involves putting urine on a strip, either by peeing directly or dipping the strip into urine. I may use about 2 or 3 strips in a year. When I test positive, I increase my insulin dosage to a "sick day" level, which can be anywhere from 125% dosage to 400%. I usually start with small increases in dosage, and work my way up until my blood glucose levels even out.
    • 8 hours, 23 minutes ago
      Marty likes your comment at
      Do you know how to test for ketones? Please share more in the comments.
      I have a blood ketone monitor. It works just like a glucometer.
    • 10 hours, 12 minutes ago
      Kathy Hanavan likes your comment at
      Do you know how to test for ketones? Please share more in the comments.
      Perhaps only the poets who love alliteration could love the phrase, “killer ketones.” The ungodly pain experienced is your body eating and devouring itself. 🥵 Ketones are relentless killers. Do not give the bad guys a chance.
    • 10 hours, 18 minutes ago
      atr likes your comment at
      Do you know how to test for ketones? Please share more in the comments.
      I test when I have unexpected, or stubbornly high blood glucose that just won't go down. I also test when I feel sick. Testing, for me, involves putting urine on a strip, either by peeing directly or dipping the strip into urine. I may use about 2 or 3 strips in a year. When I test positive, I increase my insulin dosage to a "sick day" level, which can be anywhere from 125% dosage to 400%. I usually start with small increases in dosage, and work my way up until my blood glucose levels even out.
    • 10 hours, 54 minutes ago
      Judith Halterman likes your comment at
      Do you know how to test for ketones? Please share more in the comments.
      Perhaps only the poets who love alliteration could love the phrase, “killer ketones.” The ungodly pain experienced is your body eating and devouring itself. 🥵 Ketones are relentless killers. Do not give the bad guys a chance.
    • 1 day, 4 hours ago
      Anthony Harder likes your comment at
      Do you have ketone testing strips?
      Hi, Marty. Does your specialist have a source for that claim? It makes little sense that ketones would rise faster than BG since the metabolic pathway is much slower. If there's a source, however, I'd look further into the claim. FWIW, I've been a Type 1 for over 50 years; I can't remember the last time I tested for ketones. I possess no ketone testing strips.
    • 2 days, 7 hours ago
      Marty likes your comment at
      Does your insurance cover injectable glucagon, nasal glucagon, or both?
      Covers it with co pay
    • 2 days, 9 hours ago
      atr likes your comment at
      Does your insurance cover injectable glucagon, nasal glucagon, or both?
      It covers both. I prefer to have the the nasal version as I think it would be easier for someone else to administer.
    • 2 days, 10 hours ago
      Lawrence S. likes your comment at
      Do you have a non-expired glucagon prescription?
      I’ve been T1D for 60 years. As a child my mother didn’t like needles or injections so she just fed me when low. In college, explained use to dorm mates and classmates would’ve been a waste of time. Now married, my wife assumed the role of my mother and doesn’t like using needles on me either. I don’t have glucagon.
    • 2 days, 10 hours ago
      Lawrence S. likes your comment at
      Do you have a non-expired glucagon prescription?
      Yes, always have one or two nasal glucagon kits (Baqsimi) at home in easy to reach locations (ie at bedside and special container in living area) and always keep one with me when I go out ( along with glucose tabs or other simple carbs for treating LBS.). I apparently required injectable glucagon several times as a child and needed injectable glucagon only twice as an adult, both more than 15 years ago . More recently I needed my husband to give me Baqsimi after eating a difficult to dose for, high fat meal. The experience was terrifying so I don’t go anywhere without it now.
    • 2 days, 10 hours ago
      Lawrence S. likes your comment at
      Do you have a non-expired glucagon prescription?
      I actually have 2 non-expired prescriptions. One for Baqsimi and one for Gvoke. I have not filled either of them because they’re $500-600 each.
    • 2 days, 10 hours ago
      Lawrence S. likes your comment at
      Does your insurance cover injectable glucagon, nasal glucagon, or both?
      My Medicare Part D essentially doesn't cover glucagon when any form is nearly $500!
    • 3 days, 1 hour ago
      Amanda Barras likes your comment at
      Do you have a non-expired glucagon prescription?
      Same here. Been as low as 19 (struggling with a vacuum cleaner bag and refused to let it win) but was still able to swallow food. I did used the “red needle” as my husband refers to it once when I went low but was scheduled for surgery and couldn’t eat or drink anything. Only once in 26 years. Fortunate.
    • 3 days, 20 hours ago
      Karen Newe likes your comment at
      Share some of your favorite T1D-related books in the comments:
      Marcus Aurelius Meditations for the benefits of stoicism. Dante’s Inferno for the nine levels of diabetic hell. Kristen Lavransdatter for the benefits of suffering. And best of all, Cervantes Don Quixote for the absurdity of tilting at so many worthless windmills of frenzied diabetic activity.
    • 4 days, 8 hours ago
      Natalie Daley likes your comment at
      Share some of your favorite T1D-related books in the comments:
      Marcus Aurelius Meditations for the benefits of stoicism. Dante’s Inferno for the nine levels of diabetic hell. Kristen Lavransdatter for the benefits of suffering. And best of all, Cervantes Don Quixote for the absurdity of tilting at so many worthless windmills of frenzied diabetic activity.
    • 4 days, 9 hours ago
      atr likes your comment at
      Share some of your favorite T1D-related books in the comments:
      Marcus Aurelius Meditations for the benefits of stoicism. Dante’s Inferno for the nine levels of diabetic hell. Kristen Lavransdatter for the benefits of suffering. And best of all, Cervantes Don Quixote for the absurdity of tilting at so many worthless windmills of frenzied diabetic activity.
    • 4 days, 10 hours ago
      Lawrence S. likes your comment at
      Share some of your favorite T1D-related podcasts in the comments:
      I don't do T1 podcasts.
    • 4 days, 10 hours ago
      Lawrence S. likes your comment at
      Share some of your favorite T1D-related books in the comments:
      Marcus Aurelius Meditations for the benefits of stoicism. Dante’s Inferno for the nine levels of diabetic hell. Kristen Lavransdatter for the benefits of suffering. And best of all, Cervantes Don Quixote for the absurdity of tilting at so many worthless windmills of frenzied diabetic activity.
    • 4 days, 11 hours ago
      Gary Taylor likes your comment at
      Share some of your favorite T1D-related books in the comments:
      Marcus Aurelius Meditations for the benefits of stoicism. Dante’s Inferno for the nine levels of diabetic hell. Kristen Lavransdatter for the benefits of suffering. And best of all, Cervantes Don Quixote for the absurdity of tilting at so many worthless windmills of frenzied diabetic activity.
    • 4 days, 22 hours ago
      Amanda Barras likes your comment at
      Which T1D influencers do you enjoy following?
      Currently it’s the Diabetech, Justin Easter.
    • 5 days, 7 hours ago
      ChrisW likes your comment at
      Share some of your favorite T1D-related podcasts in the comments:
      I don't do T1 podcasts.
    • 5 days, 7 hours ago
      Kathy Hanavan likes your comment at
      Share some of your favorite T1D-related podcasts in the comments:
      TCOYD Diabetes Nerd Your Best T1D Year Think Like a Pancreas
    • 5 days, 7 hours ago
      Kathy Hanavan likes your comment at
      Share some of your favorite T1D-related podcasts in the comments:
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    For those who have gone through the process of getting a CGM: Last time you started using a new CGM, how easy or difficult was it for you to get the brand and model you most wanted to use?

    Home > LC Polls > For those who have gone through the process of getting a CGM: Last time you started using a new CGM, how easy or difficult was it for you to get the brand and model you most wanted to use?
    Previous

    Did you add, remove, or change T1D devices in 2022? Select all that apply!

    Next

    If you use a CGM, where do you most prefer to view your sensor readings?

    Sarah Howard

    Sarah Howard has worked in the diabetes research field ever since she was diagnosed with T1D while in college in May 2013. Since then, she has worked for various diabetes organizations, focusing on research, advocacy, and community-building efforts for people with T1D and their loved ones. Sarah is currently the Senior Marketing Manager at T1D Exchange.

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    " At T1D Exchange, we’re proud to announce our Medical and Research Advisory Team — an accomplished group of leaders in endocrinology, research, and quality improvement. Together, they are redefining what’s possible in type 1 diabetes (T1D) care through rigorous data analysis, innovative research approaches, and real-world implementation. Their collective expertise is central to our mission of improving outcomes for all people living with T1D.  “We’re excited to be working with our advisors given their deep expertise across a broad range of areas in T1D,” said Dave Walton, CEO of T1D Exchange. “Their involvement magnifies our reach, knowledge, and impact. These advisors are shaping the future of diabetes care — driving innovation across research, clinical practice, and quality improvement.”    Meet the Medical & Research Advisory Team  The T1D Exchange Medical and Research Advisory Team brings together four leading endocrinologists, each offering a unique perspective and shared commitment to advancing T1D care:    Jenise Wong, MD, PhD Pediatric endocrinologist at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital and Professor of Pediatrics in the Division of Endocrinology at the University of California, San Francisco Focus areas: Diabetes technology adoption and usability; health equity and access to care and technology; community-based and peer-support interventions; culturally responsive care          Jennifer Sherr, MD, PhD Pediatric endocrinologist at Yale Medicine and Professor of Pediatrics in the Division of Endocrinology at Yale School of Medicine in New Haven, Connecticut Focus areas: Clinical trials in diabetes technology (CGM and AID systems), disease-modifying treatments and immunotherapies, and emerging technologies and medications, including continuous ketone monitoring and nasal glucagon     Viral Shah, MD Adult endocrinologist at Indiana University Health and Professor of Medicine in the Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism at Indiana University School of Medicine in Indianapolis, Indiana Focus areas: Diabetes technology and adjunctive therapy trials; translational and data-driven research; T1D complications and bone health         Nestoras Mathioudakis, MD, MHS Adult endocrinologist at Johns Hopkins Medicine and Associate Professor of Medicine at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine in Baltimore, Maryland Focus areas: AI-driven clinical support tools; EMR-based data analytics for clinical decision making; data-driven quality improvement; health equity in T1D care        This accomplished team’s expertise spans adult and pediatric endocrinology, research, and quality improvement affiliated with leading institutions nationwide. Collectively, they have authored over 500 diabetes publications and secured research funding from organizations such as the National Institutes of Health, Helmsley Charitable Trust, the American Diabetes Association, and Breakthrough T1D — while remaining actively engaged in both clinical care and research.  “These individuals represent an impressive body of work while remaining deeply involved in the day-to-day realities of diabetes care,” said Walton. Their expertise covers the full spectrum of T1D care — from AI and predictive analytics to complication prevention, automated insulin delivery, continuous glucose and ketone monitoring, GLP-1 treatments, health equity, mental health, autoantibody screening, and disease prevention.    Turning insight into impact  The team’s work goes beyond research, focusing on translating insights into real-world practice. By leveraging data to scale best practices, the goal is to drive meaningful, measurable change across clinics and communities.  “Our advisors will help to extend our impact — whether through QI strategy, research innovation, funding opportunities, or new data-driven solutions,” said Walton. “We want to take what’s working at individual centers and spread that as broadly as possible.”   He added, “As a Collaborative, we’re also focused on advanced population health strategies such as exploring predictive data models to identify risks earlier and intervene before complications even begin to happen.”    The power of the T1D Exchange Quality Improvement Collaborative  Central to this work is the T1D Exchange Quality Improvement Collaborative (T1DX-QI) — a nationwide network of clinics working together to improve care through shared data, benchmarking, and evidence-based practices.  “I’m thrilled to serve as a Medical Advisor for T1D Exchange, because I’ve seen firsthand the impact this network can have on patient care,” said Dr. Nestoras Mathioudakis. “T1D Exchange is the premier organization for quality improvement in type 1 diabetes, with unparalleled assets like a large EHR database and robust patient registry.”  He added that he is excited to apply his expertise in EHR research and big data analytics to generate real-world evidence across diagnosis, management, and outcomes.  Dr. Viral Shah echoed that perspective, reflecting on T1DX-QI's evolution: “I have been involved with T1D Exchange since its early days and have had the privilege of witnessing how it has transformed the quality of diabetes care across the United States. I’m delighted to return as a Medical Advisor.”  He emphasized the importance of accelerating impact. “I look forward to working closely with the team to accelerate the evidence generation and to help translate these insights to improve patient care.”   Dr. Jenise Wong highlighted the visible impact of T1DX-QI on the delivery of care. "I’m truly honored and grateful to be working with T1D Exchange as a Medical Advisor. T1DX-QI is a remarkable resource for centers that are using continuous process improvement to improve the quality of care for people living with diabetes.”  “Diabetes centers working with T1DX –QI have done amazing work using QI methodology to make care accessible and equitable for all people with diabetes,” she said. “It’s inspiring to be a part of a collaborative in which centers have been creative and thoughtful with initiatives to address individual and systemic challenges to care, improving clinical outcomes as well as the patient experience."  Looking ahead, Dr. Sherr highlighted the opportunity to build on the existing strong foundation. “I’m very excited to be working as a Medical Advisor for T1D Exchange,” she said. “It’s a privilege to help shape what comes next for a group that’s already doing such impactful work.”  “Sharing what’s happening in clinical practice, benchmarking across centers, and understanding outcomes is how we figure out what’s working, what’s not, and where we go next,” she said.      The future of T1D care   With this team’s vision and expertise, T1D Exchange is positioned to accelerate progress in T1D care — bridging research and real-world practice to drive meaningful, measurable impact.  Together, we look forward to advancing innovation and improving outcomes for everyone affected by type 1 diabetes.   "

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    27 Comments

    1. Jen Farley

      I tried Medtronic closed loop system. What a nightmare. The CGM I was told could have a + or – 70 variation. I was also not told about the calibration, I thought insulin would stop. Training on the new system would have fixed it all. I had 2 car accidents, lost my license and kept asking questions with different explanations to explain defects with the equipment. I hear the CGM is no longer used and and keeps getting recalled. I threw it away when I found out I paid cash for the junk and my insurance would cover my Tandem pump which has greatly improved.

      1
      3 years ago Log in to Reply
      1. Deyait Watson-Irvine

        Im sorry to hear about you issues with your pump! I had Medtronic and switched to Tandem because of my new Endocrinologist preference. I have not been disappointed. You are correct in the training aspect. If you don’t understand the equipment it’s just a worthless device. I hope you can find a good diabetes educator to help adjust your pump settings so you can feel more confident. I am still making adjustments to my settings as well. Just know you are not alone in feeling frustrated or confused. We are all doing the best we can to stay on top of this disease. Stay well!

        3
        3 years ago Log in to Reply
    2. C B

      Libre 3 is not on my drug formulary

      1
      3 years ago Log in to Reply
      1. MT

        Same here. Paying cash for the 3 and checking weekly to see if it’s been added.

        3 years ago Log in to Reply
    3. Lawrence S.

      I had to wait for Medicare to approve the Dexcom G6 before I could order it. I don’t remember how long I waited. Seemed like a year or two.

      3 years ago Log in to Reply
    4. TEH

      I answered other since I am going through the process of switching from Medtronic to Omnipod/Dexcom system.
      Medtronics would call and email me asking how many sensors I had left before they would send more. This I believe is a Medicare requirement. We’ll see what Dexcom process is like. Comments welcome.

      3 years ago Log in to Reply
      1. Tom Caesar

        Get my D6 covered by Medicare through US Med, easy and painless. Medicare does require having a 10 day supply before reordering, supplier is on top of it and sends 90 day supply promptly with very little efforts on my part.

        3 years ago Log in to Reply
    5. Steve Rumble

      The first and only time I started using a CGM a Dexcom G6 was provided so I could participate in a study. Through the study I learned to rely on the CGM and started purchasing them after the 6-month study ended. I now get the supplies through the VA.

      3 years ago Log in to Reply
    6. trisha

      Switched to Dexcom before I was allowed by insurance to switch pumps (from Medtronic). It was night and day. Doing something through insurance is never easy. I kept being reminded dexcom would not work with Medtronic by medical staff. I appreciated that- but the part they couldn’t understand from lack of excess was that Medtronic’s cgm was the pits.

      3
      3 years ago Log in to Reply
      1. trisha

        *experience

        3 years ago Log in to Reply
    7. Meghan Larson

      It was easy for me- the CGM I wanted was the only one covered by my insurance at the time.

      3 years ago Log in to Reply
    8. Daniel Bestvater

      No problem! I pay cash so I just ordered it and paid.

      3 years ago Log in to Reply
    9. KCR

      When I originally got my Dexcom G5 several years ago, the process went pretty smoothly. The supplier worked with my provider when the G6 became available and I really didn’t have to do anything.

      3 years ago Log in to Reply
    10. Annie Wall

      When I first started with Dexcom, it hadn’t yet been approved by Medicare so I paid for it. Once it got Medicare approval, it was totally easy obtain it without hassle.

      3 years ago Log in to Reply
    11. Marty

      I had been using the Dexcom G6 system for months when I started on Medicare. Since Medicare was only covering the G5 at the time, I couldn’t get replacement G6 supplies. Dexcom also refused to let me revert to the G5 system. I was trapped in a frustrating run around that lasted weeks. I was finally able to get G6 supplies by complaining directly to a Dexcom rep at a local diabetes conference. I think Dexcom learned a lesson about having enough supplies for everyone before they transition to a new system.

      3 years ago Log in to Reply
    12. betsy valian

      I was given the G5,although the G6 Dexcom was available through other insurers. I have Medicare. They only give the older left over devices to Medicare patients; I suppose this will also be the same when the G7 is available. I did eventually get a G6, but it took over a year plus after they were released. I’m hoping the G7 will be easier. However, bottom line is, I’m just thankful I can get a CGM period!

      1
      3 years ago Log in to Reply
    13. Janis Senungetuk

      At the time I applied for the Dexcom 5 it was the only CGM system approved by my insurance, so I didn’t encounter any problems receiving it. The problems started immediately after that with Dexcom refusing to bill my insurance correctly and lack of adequate training in use of the system.

      3 years ago Log in to Reply
    14. Jane Cerullo

      Started a new Medicare advantage insurance. I was on Dexcom but they only covered FSL. I switched. Was not too bad but did not like other restrictions with this insurance provider. Changed insurance and went back to Dexcom. Have never had any supply problems with either device.

      3 years ago Log in to Reply
    15. cynthia jaworski

      freestyle was easy toget

      3 years ago Log in to Reply
    16. Carol Meares

      I guess I will find out when it comes time to upgrade to the G7

      3 years ago Log in to Reply
    17. Sandra Rosborough

      The problem is always communications with insurance and the CGM companies, not the doctor.

      2
      3 years ago Log in to Reply
    18. Ahh Life

      Humans may not be the smartest creatures God ever created.

      But why did he place so many of the dumber ones in administrative areas?

      1
      3 years ago Log in to Reply
    19. Russell Buckbee

      Very difficult as it was before Medicare approved CGMs. I had to purchase key first one by cash. Then Medicare was difficult. I had to get two tests to prove I wasn’t producing any pancreatic insulin. Then my cost were incorrect and I had to appeal to an administrative law judge to get reimbursed. Now days it is easy. Medicare standard

      3 years ago Log in to Reply
    20. RegMunro

      The process of getting the CGM was simple. Getting it covered as part of my medical aid scheme was impossible. As long as I pay, I can use!

      3 years ago Log in to Reply
    21. qachemist

      I’m on my first one, obtained at first visit to endocrinologist (after referral from PCP who diagnosed). Didn’t know enough to have a preference so went with endocrinologist recommendation. Now I know more and would likely not make that choice.

      3 years ago Log in to Reply
    22. Wanacure

      My Kaiser tech accurately described difference between Dexcom & Free Style Libre. I chose Dexcom for more accuracy. Kaiser & Byram and Medicare all work smoothly together. BUT Kaiser only offers Advantage plans so no Medigap coverage. Only Original Medicare can permit Medigap coverage. No Medicare Advantage plan offered by anybody can let you get Medigap. SHIBA alerted me to this deficiency.

      3 years ago Log in to Reply
    23. Andrea Hultman

      From what I remember, getting the Medtronic devices I wanted and needed have always been easy on Medtronic’s end. I’ve been a customer of theirs (and MiniMed’s) for 26 years. Getting insurance approval has been the obstacle, but I never had to go with a different brand—for which I am thankful.

      3 years ago Log in to Reply

    For those who have gone through the process of getting a CGM: Last time you started using a new CGM, how easy or difficult was it for you to get the brand and model you most wanted to use? Cancel reply

    You must be logged in to post a comment.




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