Below are answers to some frequently asked questions regarding insurance coverage for REAL-Time Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM).

Q: Do all Medtronic MiniMed insulin pumps have continuous glucose monitoring components?
A: No, only the Paradigm® REAL-Time System offers CGM. This relates to the Medtronic MiniMed Paradigm® 522 or 722 insulin pumps.

Q: Will my private insurance plan cover the continuous glucose monitoring component of the Paradigm® REAL-Time System?
A: Continuous glucose monitoring is new technology, and generally it is not yet covered by insurance companies. Your insurance company may agree to pay for a transmitter and/or glucose sensors on a case-by-case basis if you and your physician make a clinically relevant case for coverage. Click the Private Insurance link to the left for suggestions of what to submit to your insurance company for consideration.

Q: Why did my insurance company say "no" for coverage of the continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) components when my insurance policy says that it covers diabetic supplies?
A: Generally, policies that cover diabetic supplies refer to devices and supplies which are established standards of care for diabetes treatment. Since CGM is a new technology, the benefits of CGM are not considered an established standard of treatment, as such, many insurers have not yet added these components to their policies. We are, however, continuously building the body of evidence to support the benefits of CGM.

Q: Can my employer instruct my insurance company to add CGM components to my policy?
A: As a rule, employers can indicate to the insurance company what devices or services they would like to see covered for their employees. Your employer can purchase several types of insurance plans on your behalf. You may wish to speak with your employer's Benefits Administrator to discuss whether or not this is an option for you.

Q: Can I purchase a Medtronic MiniMed Paradigm® Insulin Pump now and add a CGM component later?
A: Yes. The two parts of the Paradigm® REAL-Time System (insulin pump and the CGM components) may be purchased separately or as a system.

Q: Will Medtronic Diabetes contact my insurance company on my behalf to determine if I have coverage for continuous glucose monitoring components?
A: At this time, we are unable to process individual insurance inquiries regarding CGM components on your behalf. We are working with insurers and policy makers to demonstrate the benefits of this new continuous glucose monitoring technology.

Q: Which components of the Paradigm® REAL-Time System are for continuous glucose monitoring?
A: The continuous glucose monitoring system consists of a reusable transmitter, and disposable glucose sensors (changed every 3 days).

Q: If my insurance won't pay for the Continuous Glucose Monitoring components, what are my coverage and payment options?
A: If your insurer does not cover CGM on its policies, you may pay for the transmitter and sensors yourself as an out-of-pocket expense. You may claim out-of-pocket medical expenses on your annual income tax return. Always consult your financial advisor for advice regarding medical expenses and income tax. You may also wish to discuss applying for the Disability Tax Credit with your physician and your financial advisor.