Omnipod

my insurance wouldnt cover it, they said they were working on it. Does anyone know if medicare covers the omnipod now?

been on one for about 3 months, usually wear mine on my thigh. I like not having to take lantus and novolog shots all the time

I had to change insurance companies to get it paid for, and luckily, I was able to do so. I have only been using it for about 4 months, but I LOVE it. I used needles for 53 years even after pumps became available, as I didn't want to be "tethered" to something. I like wearing it on my upper arm the best. I love the freedom it gives me, plus the improved control.

Dalgirl

Wow! This actually eliminates the need for Lantus too? I currently take 24 units of Lantus plus a sliding scale of NovoLog before meals. That adds up to 4 injections per day plus the occasional correction when my bg gets out of whack. When you add in my 6 tests per day, that's a lot of needles.

I was just approved for this - found out today in fact - and yes, it completely removes the need for Lantus as well (I'm on 26 units + novolog correction before each meal, so we're pretty much in the same boat).
My insurance - TriCare - covers it 100%, as long as my Endo filled out the "medical necessity" form. Good luck!

My insurance did not cover it either. Would have loved to have gotten one but could not afford to do it without insurance. I am currently not on a pump. I refuse to use a regular pump, do not want to be tied to a device. I do a lot of water sports and would end up with the device being off my body as much as it is on. Hoping insurance will pull their heads out and start paying for these.

Hi
Did the insurance company give you a reason they would not cover it? I just went thru this with military health care out West. They denied me my pump supplies stating that OmniPod was a luxury item! HAH!! I overturned the policy by writing to my Senator and Congressman - there is a Diabetic Caucus in existence that has members in each State. Unfortunately, this requires a lot of hard work on your part but the results (like the ones I have gotten) are great - I not only helped myself but other dependents stationed out West who are diabetic. I have the list of members by State if u are interested.

GiGi

Unfortunately, all my health care is provided by the VA. If I get an Omnipod, I'll probably have to pay for it myself. The company is vary cagy about quoting the price in their advertising but I suspect it will be far more than I can afford.

I sent a copy of what was going on to the Dept of Veteran's Affairs and Congressman Skelton was very much interested in the the denial Tricare/TriWest was making. Like I said, it's a bit of work but a change can be made.

GiGi

actually it might be surprisingly cheaper than you think.

I think the highest cost is the meter/ pda which I beliebe runs around $600, but is a 1 time expense…the pods themselves are around $300/per 90 day supply.

Hi GiGi,

A "Luxury Item!" That is so ridiculas. I'll bet they wouldn't think that it was a luxury item, if it were they who were needing it, huh! I am sure that everyone you helped with all of your hard work appreciates it, and thanks you.

Good work, and good for you!

Sue T.

Thanks Sue! I felt the same way! How can a life saving device being considered luxury. Of course they were using a 1982 section of the manual!!

Cheers!
GiGi

Hi!
I have been on it 3 years as well and love it!! They have upgraded the hand held pdm and it is thinner and with a bigger screen. You will be happy with it and the support from the Insulet Corp/OmniPod is great.

GiGi :0)

Oops wrong area

I've been on the OmniPod for 3 years and love it! Many insurances cover it now, just like they do other pumps.

You can read a little about my experiences here:
http://www.diabetesmine.com/2007/07/op-faq-st...

All the best,
AmyT

For me no ins will not cover it
I would have liked to have it.
I got the medtronic 722 and I love it
the pump is a life saver
Best wishes
Harlen