I would think that 90% is really good coverage for CGM. I hear you trying to lose some weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Thanks again!

The CGMS is cheaper in the States than here, perhaps that may change in time. I agree that with the BG calibration and so on its not as effective, but it would be very useful for me, even for looking at trends for your basal rates.

I always think, especially with the Medtronic setup we should be able to get some closed loop automation going by now. Most of the problem seems to be in getting a good control algorithm (like a PID controller) going to account for the many variables and of cause getting it approved by your FDA and our TGA. The sensors also as we know are not 100% accurate; research studies I have seen shows the Navigator as the most accurate especially in the hypo region.

There is still a lot of research to be done as far as I have read and maybe quite a few developments will be needed before we get anything that is truely very useful…better sensors, getting over the insulin action delays etc etc…but it seems we should be able to get a better system now. But of course we have got to be able to afford it!

I am hopeful that when Medtronic release their new pump next year, it will incorporate useful feedback, as I understand, it will have something. I believe it may be shutting off the basal rate on prediction of a hypo, they would do that by using an algorithm to predict the hypo crossover point based on CGMS readings, probably taken up to 1/2 an hour before hand (I’ve seen papers on that). That may be quite a useful feature, as that is hopefully what one would do maually if seeing such a trend on the CGMS. There has also been research done on automating insulin dosing for meals, so hopefully we can’t be too far away.

I’m going to follow up with my insurance company again, I w’ont hold my breath, but I feel I have got to try.

Thank you for the comment. When I went to the JDRF site to check it appears that this campaign is only geared towards those in the United States because there is no country code to enter.

My thought would be to continue to press your insurance company. Also, if you are constantly having lows, you may have a better case for getting a CGMS (hint, hint). Maybe you can talk to your doctor and see if he/she has any clout with medical experts who could join together and campaign for coverage.

I am 100% with you in that I think the benefit is huge for people with diabetes and the only drawback is cost. Therefore, those with the means have more tools to combat diabetes than those on a tight budget. It’s really sad.

I spoke with my insurance company and they have 70/30 coverage for the supplies (they pay 70). I estimated my cost would be about $1000 for the monitor and around $100 per month if I wore it constantly.

I am kind of holding out for a closed loop system. There just seems to be too much priming, almost as many finger pricks, with not too much to gain. Don’t get me wrong, I think it is beneficial, but just not enough for me right now.

If I can be of any assistance, please just let me know. Thanks again for the feedback.
Cheers!

I think it is so important that for all those who wish to use it, have access, the potential benefits I think are significant, better informed, more control, reduced costs to the health care system … Once the companies start to release the intelligent pumps, the use of CGMS will be mandatory for closed loop feedback, whether that be the first generation partial closed loop system, hopefully here in 2009 or in a few years time the new generation closed loop systems.

Currently in Australia only the Medtronic CGMS is available, I believe the Dexcom and Abott units may be released here in 2009, the cost is prohibitive at $72 per sensor plus the transmitter for use on an ongoing basis.