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    • 10 hours, 51 minutes ago
      Amanda Barras likes your comment at
      If you or your spouse live with T1D and are thinking about having a baby, how concerned are you about them carrying T1D autoantibodies?
      I had two healthy pregnancies. The only issues were low blood sugars and my babies being born early other than that they are 38 and 35 years old, healthy children.
    • 15 hours, 10 minutes ago
      Lawrence S. likes your comment at
      When you bolus for a meal, do you usually estimate carbs, use an app, or the nutrition label? Please share your habits in the comments.
      I use them all. I use an app when I’m eating out. I use labels when at home. If not on the app I estimate.
    • 15 hours, 10 minutes ago
      Lawrence S. likes your comment at
      When you bolus for a meal, do you usually estimate carbs, use an app, or the nutrition label? Please share your habits in the comments.
      If there is a label, I always read it. I can estimate pretty well, too, after 40 years. It helps to eat similar foods daily. Not computer savvy enough to use an app. It seems a lot of work..
    • 15 hours, 11 minutes ago
      Lawrence S. likes your comment at
      When you bolus for a meal, do you usually estimate carbs, use an app, or the nutrition label? Please share your habits in the comments.
      I generally do a very rough guess of carbs and correct if needed by adding more insulin for an also rough guess for effect of fat and protein later. My alert is set at 130 to remind me so I don’t get too high. I watch arrows a lot. I have had individual sensors lately that are not accurate. This can throw me off, where the sensor reading will be going up fast at say 180 and I will test my blood and it is 130. Sometimes I will have already corrected for the 180. This can cause a very rough day having to feed the insulin. I am hoping sensors will continue to get more accurate. So much depends on it especially with the algorithm. I usually don’t wait for my algorithm to correct because it will let my bg get too high. I know I’m supposed to let the algorithm do its thing but my goals are more strict. I am on G7 and Omnipod 5. I would like to be able to set my target at 100.
    • 15 hours, 11 minutes ago
      Lawrence S. likes your comment at
      When you bolus for a meal, do you usually estimate carbs, use an app, or the nutrition label? Please share your habits in the comments.
      I should have clicked the fourth option. I use the labels if available. If not, I estimate.
    • 15 hours, 35 minutes ago
      atr likes your comment at
      If you or your spouse live with T1D and are thinking about having a baby, how concerned are you about them carrying T1D autoantibodies?
      We knew the risk was 50%. My wife miscarried 4x. We ended up with three great sons, only 1 has T1D. His eldest daughter (of 2) also has T1D.
    • 15 hours, 35 minutes ago
      atr likes your comment at
      If you or your spouse live with T1D and are thinking about having a baby, how concerned are you about them carrying T1D autoantibodies?
      47 years ago i had my pregnancies and didnt hear about her carrying T1D antibodies but i did have concerns about my child having diabetes. When she was about 12 there was a study to see her chance of developing diabetes ,this blood test was negative. 2 of my grandchildren have been tested and were negative . At the time of my pregnancies i had diabetes for 10 years
    • 15 hours, 36 minutes ago
      atr likes your comment at
      If you or your spouse live with T1D and are thinking about having a baby, how concerned are you about them carrying T1D autoantibodies?
      If you have T1D, there is an 80% chance that no one else in your family has or will have it. If someone else in my family had it, I'd be much more concerned about passing it on than I am knowing that I am the one and only.
    • 1 day, 4 hours ago
      Watertail likes your comment at
      When people talk about diabetes, are there trigger words that bother you? Please share what they are in the comments.
      oh and this one...... when I see a new doctor they say... "let's get some blood work to see if you have diabetes" and I ask them... did you even read my intake forms that say I have had T1 D for over 40 years? ughhhhhh
    • 1 day, 4 hours ago
      Janis Senungetuk likes your comment at
      When you bolus for a meal, do you usually estimate carbs, use an app, or the nutrition label? Please share your habits in the comments.
      I use the nutrition labels as a starting point. For home made foods or for restaurant meals, my wife who was a nutritionist, helps come up with a carb estimate. Then there are times that I just have to take a wild ass guess. I have collected a list of over a hundred common foods that I eat and I keep that keep that list in a notes app on my phone right next to my T-slim app. I often check the nutrition labels for things on my list to see if the recommended carb levels for that item have changed. Then I adjust my list as needed. I also check my BG response to listed carbs I eat. I have adjusted some items over time. So, I would call this approach a hybrid. As Daniel Bestvater notes above, we are only controlling one item out of 6. Your mileage may vary.
    • 1 day, 4 hours ago
      Watertail likes your comment at
      When people talk about diabetes, are there trigger words that bother you? Please share what they are in the comments.
      Not really trigger words as much as not understanding or even aware of the difference between Type 1 and Type 2.
    • 1 day, 4 hours ago
      Watertail likes your comment at
      When people talk about diabetes, are there trigger words that bother you? Please share what they are in the comments.
      And it's especially frustrating when HCP's ask about "checking your sugars? Be a professional dammit, ask about my "blood glucose"
    • 1 day, 4 hours ago
      Janis Senungetuk likes your comment at
      When you bolus for a meal, do you usually estimate carbs, use an app, or the nutrition label? Please share your habits in the comments.
      I count carbs, acc. To Mabel if I have, look up nutrition for items, and estimate if needed. Used to always cook myself till this yr, now in apt where food is provided, so now looking up a lot to estimate. Going pretty well
    • 1 day, 4 hours ago
      Janis Senungetuk likes your comment at
      When you bolus for a meal, do you usually estimate carbs, use an app, or the nutrition label? Please share your habits in the comments.
      Years ago I used to calculate out carbs with a scale & book. Then I realized it didn’t seem to make a huge difference. I had many discussions with an endocrinologist friend about this topic and we both found that highly accurate carb counting didn’t seem to make much difference. As long as you are in the ballpark. I think we need to realize the pancreas produces at least 6 BG regulator hormones and we are only injecting one, insulin. So we need to do our best but not stress over it. This is at least why 2 identical meals can result in two different BG levels.
    • 1 day, 5 hours ago
      Janis Senungetuk likes your comment at
      When you bolus for a meal, do you usually estimate carbs, use an app, or the nutrition label? Please share your habits in the comments.
      It depends on the situation. At home I calculate carbohydrate with my scale. At restaurants it depends on if they have nutritional information available. If they don't have it, I estimate. The same with eating with other people's houses even while using my scale.
    • 1 day, 7 hours ago
      AmyM likes your comment at
      When you bolus for a meal, do you usually estimate carbs, use an app, or the nutrition label? Please share your habits in the comments.
      If I have a label I use it. Mostly I guesstimate then use the info the next time I eat the same meal. I am a big eater with no weight problem. When I go out, usually 2-3 times per week, I have to put in 90 grams of carbs, then add if not enough because I will go low before I go high. The other times, when eating at home, I eat less. Exercise is key. I just got back from 3 trips in 6 weeks. To Sicily, Boothbay Harbor, Maine, and to visit family in Baltimore. Only in Baltimore did I have issues with BG, because I wasn’t walking as much, although I did walk 1.5 miles most days. A1C when got home was 6.3. Time in range about 75%, down from usual 85%. I’ll take that. Not traveling for another year probably and will get back on track.
    • 1 day, 10 hours ago
      KarenM6 likes your comment at
      When you bolus for a meal, do you usually estimate carbs, use an app, or the nutrition label? Please share your habits in the comments.
      I should have clicked the fourth option. I use the labels if available. If not, I estimate.
    • 1 day, 10 hours ago
      KarenM6 likes your comment at
      When you bolus for a meal, do you usually estimate carbs, use an app, or the nutrition label? Please share your habits in the comments.
      Years ago I used to calculate out carbs with a scale & book. Then I realized it didn’t seem to make a huge difference. I had many discussions with an endocrinologist friend about this topic and we both found that highly accurate carb counting didn’t seem to make much difference. As long as you are in the ballpark. I think we need to realize the pancreas produces at least 6 BG regulator hormones and we are only injecting one, insulin. So we need to do our best but not stress over it. This is at least why 2 identical meals can result in two different BG levels.
    • 1 day, 12 hours ago
      lis be likes your comment at
      When you bolus for a meal, do you usually estimate carbs, use an app, or the nutrition label? Please share your habits in the comments.
      Years ago I used to calculate out carbs with a scale & book. Then I realized it didn’t seem to make a huge difference. I had many discussions with an endocrinologist friend about this topic and we both found that highly accurate carb counting didn’t seem to make much difference. As long as you are in the ballpark. I think we need to realize the pancreas produces at least 6 BG regulator hormones and we are only injecting one, insulin. So we need to do our best but not stress over it. This is at least why 2 identical meals can result in two different BG levels.
    • 1 day, 12 hours ago
      lis be likes your comment at
      When you bolus for a meal, do you usually estimate carbs, use an app, or the nutrition label? Please share your habits in the comments.
      Cronometer
    • 1 day, 13 hours ago
      Trina Blake likes your comment at
      When you bolus for a meal, do you usually estimate carbs, use an app, or the nutrition label? Please share your habits in the comments.
      Years ago I used to calculate out carbs with a scale & book. Then I realized it didn’t seem to make a huge difference. I had many discussions with an endocrinologist friend about this topic and we both found that highly accurate carb counting didn’t seem to make much difference. As long as you are in the ballpark. I think we need to realize the pancreas produces at least 6 BG regulator hormones and we are only injecting one, insulin. So we need to do our best but not stress over it. This is at least why 2 identical meals can result in two different BG levels.
    • 1 day, 14 hours ago
      TEH likes your comment at
      When you bolus for a meal, do you usually estimate carbs, use an app, or the nutrition label? Please share your habits in the comments.
      Years ago I used to calculate out carbs with a scale & book. Then I realized it didn’t seem to make a huge difference. I had many discussions with an endocrinologist friend about this topic and we both found that highly accurate carb counting didn’t seem to make much difference. As long as you are in the ballpark. I think we need to realize the pancreas produces at least 6 BG regulator hormones and we are only injecting one, insulin. So we need to do our best but not stress over it. This is at least why 2 identical meals can result in two different BG levels.
    • 1 day, 15 hours ago
      Bob Durstenfeld likes your comment at
      When you bolus for a meal, do you usually estimate carbs, use an app, or the nutrition label? Please share your habits in the comments.
      Years ago I used to calculate out carbs with a scale & book. Then I realized it didn’t seem to make a huge difference. I had many discussions with an endocrinologist friend about this topic and we both found that highly accurate carb counting didn’t seem to make much difference. As long as you are in the ballpark. I think we need to realize the pancreas produces at least 6 BG regulator hormones and we are only injecting one, insulin. So we need to do our best but not stress over it. This is at least why 2 identical meals can result in two different BG levels.
    • 1 day, 15 hours ago
      Marty likes your comment at
      When you bolus for a meal, do you usually estimate carbs, use an app, or the nutrition label? Please share your habits in the comments.
      Years ago I used to calculate out carbs with a scale & book. Then I realized it didn’t seem to make a huge difference. I had many discussions with an endocrinologist friend about this topic and we both found that highly accurate carb counting didn’t seem to make much difference. As long as you are in the ballpark. I think we need to realize the pancreas produces at least 6 BG regulator hormones and we are only injecting one, insulin. So we need to do our best but not stress over it. This is at least why 2 identical meals can result in two different BG levels.
    • 1 day, 16 hours ago
      atr likes your comment at
      When you bolus for a meal, do you usually estimate carbs, use an app, or the nutrition label? Please share your habits in the comments.
      Years ago I used to calculate out carbs with a scale & book. Then I realized it didn’t seem to make a huge difference. I had many discussions with an endocrinologist friend about this topic and we both found that highly accurate carb counting didn’t seem to make much difference. As long as you are in the ballpark. I think we need to realize the pancreas produces at least 6 BG regulator hormones and we are only injecting one, insulin. So we need to do our best but not stress over it. This is at least why 2 identical meals can result in two different BG levels.
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    In your experience, what are the biggest barriers to accessing diabetes-related medical care? Select all that apply.

    Home > LC Polls > In your experience, what are the biggest barriers to accessing diabetes-related medical care? Select all that apply.
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    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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    21 Comments

    1. Bonnie Lundblom

      It’s hard sometimes to get my endocrinologist appointment scheduled tp be compliant with Medicare rules. I’m on a pump I must be seen every 3 months and there have been times that I had to beg to be fit in on any day at any time. Thankful that where I live there are plenty of endocrinologists who give excellent care to their patients.

      4 years ago Log in to Reply
    2. Ahh Life

      For a majority of folks it is probably cost. But right now in January of 2021 my biggest barrier is “other,” namely technical equipment failures–CGM’s, pumps, insulin. C’mon! This is 2021. This should not be happening.

      4 years ago Log in to Reply
    3. AimmcG

      Luckily I don’t have any real issues. Even though I May plop up here or there and feel guilty about my blood sugar numbers, I keep my appointments and face the consequences. If I have to change an appointment though it ends up causing delays as I can’t get in for 3 months!

      4 years ago Log in to Reply
    4. Donald Cragun

      My biggest problem is getting Solara Medical Supplies to ship me CGM and pump supplies in a timely manner.

      4 years ago Log in to Reply
    5. Karen Bowlby

      Edgepark

      4 years ago Log in to Reply
    6. Chip Brookes

      I have no problems being seen by my endo. He is the best. He takes time to listen to and discuss my concerns. I dread the day he retires

      4 years ago Log in to Reply
    7. Kim Pedraza

      I do have feelings of guilt being so brittle, everything effects my sugar. I am able to control the feelings. The biggest frustration is calling on medical supplies. I will be on hold forever trying to get through to someone. This is every single time I call.

      4 years ago Log in to Reply
    8. ConnieT1D62

      Like others have stated the biggest barrier is getting an appointment with the endocrine provider within the Medicare q 3 month time frame. To avoid hassles, I typically schedule them a 6 months to a year in advance and make sure I have no other commitments to interfere because having to reschedule with her can be next to impossible. However, the endo practice I go to has a roster of providers that can be seen in a pinch if need be.

      4 years ago Log in to Reply
    9. Thomas Hatton

      By far it’s cost for me. I have been carefull keeping track of my health insurance costs and for 2020 I paid 10% of my income for supplies copays and

      4 years ago Log in to Reply
    10. Stephen Woodward

      Medical equipment providers are a significant road block the need constant attention to have the supplies to manage T1D. And, the fact that the medical field is inundated with profit seekers that are killing and maiming people daily.

      4 years ago Log in to Reply
    11. Ernie Richmann

      Overall I have had few obstacles. I dread ordering supplies by phone which dexcom requires for some reason I don’t understand. It seems like forever once you are connected with the same questions repeated. I would say the pandemic has been an obstacle for many.

      4 years ago Log in to Reply
    12. Marjorie Priceman

      I moved from a major city to a rural area some years ago and found that Endocrinologists were few and far between. I do see a Nurse Practitioner who specializes in Diabetes, who is quite good, but I am one of the few Type 1 Diabetics she sees. Additionally, my family practice doctor is very well meaning but unaware of all the differences between T1 and T2. I have had Type 1 for 49 years and am doing quite well nonetheless.

      4 years ago Log in to Reply
    13. connie ker

      I am in the 4% of replys that say “other”. My other is I am completely satisfied with the NP Endo and her RN who travel 3 times a month to my smaller city. Now I can stay intown and they do the driving. I am so happy about this new arrangement, happy to be on Medicare with a supplement, and happy with my Medicare RX plan. So my only concern is what is going to happen with the Biden/Harris socialized medicine upheaval????? Will I be censored for saying that?

      4 years ago Log in to Reply
    14. Patricia Dalrymple

      Well, if we are getting political which is not a good idea, I would say my biggest worry used to be losing my job and not being able to get health care because of a pre-existing condition. My answer is time but also how often I have to go. I’ve talked my Endo into 3 times insyea

      4 years ago Log in to Reply
    15. Patricia Dalrymple

      I really don’t care for this new format – no editing at least via phone. Anyway to continue, I’m in control of my disease and would like to cut visits to twice per year. I go 3 times now.

      4 years ago Log in to Reply
    16. Sherolyn Newell

      @Ernie, I order Dexcom online, you should ask again. Regarding the question, my doctor always says come back in 3 months, then the scheduler says the next open appointment is closer to 4 months. So I said lack of appointment times.

      4 years ago Log in to Reply
    17. Janis Senungetuk

      Insurance coverage and cost are constant barriers. I waited 60 years before getting an insulin pump because of the cost. Even with supplies ‘covered’ by insurance there are still co-pays and now co-insurance that require payment.

      4 years ago Log in to Reply
    18. Ann Taylor

      I’m on Medicare with a supplement. I hate it when they decide they are not going to cover something- like now they aren’t going to cover Dexcom-then you have to call you care giver to see if they will talk to the insurance company. Luckily my care givers are great at least everyone but the endo. That was my 2nd check. Not enough endos in the area and I live in a good size city. The 3rd check was feeling ashamed- when I go high I figure it’s my fault I’m with you Connie. I’m worried about the next 4 years Does everyone else get all the comments cause I only get 5

      4 years ago Log in to Reply
    19. Patricia Dalrymple

      I’ve complained about the number of comments I see as well. Goes nowhere.

      4 years ago Log in to Reply
    20. Becky Hertz

      I’m on Medicare and dislike that they are so far behind in allowing us to treat our disease with the most up to date medicines and technology. One size does not fit all and sometimes you need more then one size. I dislike that insurance plans can dictate what you can and cannot use or charge exorbitant amounts is you have to use non-formulary meds (I’m allergic to Humalog!). I should be able to use everything I want to manage the Diabetes. We are all different and do is how we can best deal with this disease.

      4 years ago Log in to Reply
    21. Cheryl Seibert

      Pharmacy issues with pre-authorization, 90-day reorder time limits and lack of pharmacy coverage for items listed on their formulary are my biggest issues. The inability to reorder outside of the 90-day date causes issues when there have been infusion site / sensor failures. CVS Caremark’s inventory system does not differentiate between various insulin pump supplies (sets vs reservoirs), so in the past on Medtronic pumps, I would reorder sets and the system marked sets and reservoirs as being reordered. I’ve lost days of my time over the past 5-7 years with pharmacy and insurance coverage of all diabetic-related supplies. They lump ALL diabetics into one category (Type 2).

      4 years ago Log in to Reply

    In your experience, what are the biggest barriers to accessing diabetes-related medical care? Select all that apply. Cancel reply

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