Disetronic or MiniMed?
I just started the process with my insurance company about a week ago. I
received a call from them today. They did approve the insulin pump, which I
was really amazed that they did so this quick.
They informed me that I was free to choose the MiniMed pump, but recommended
that I look into the Disetronic pumps. I have looked into the other pumps
very little. MiniMed is a name I have heard about almost since I was
diagnosed in the early eighties.
Here is the problem: MiniMed is considered Out of Network Provider. As a
result, they will only pay 60%
Disetronic is In Network, they will pay 80%.
I really think I want the MiniMed, but do not want to pay twice as much.
Does anyone have experience with both companies. The MiniMed rep gave me
several reasons why not to go with Disetronic, but I consider that a biased
report.
Thanks, Bart
August 29th, 2004 at 11:52 pm
Hi Bart: I’m a Disetronic user as well as a trainer. It’s whatever your
preferences are. I’d suggest you contact IIS - Insulin Infusion Specialties
1800 8387867 and have then get their area rep to touch base with you. They
sell both pumps. The advantage with the MINIMED is that it has that square
wave bolus that can allow for a different basal rate after a substantial meal
which might have included carbs that take longer to digest…..I liked the
Disetronic simply because I could get a backup pump (because it’s made in
Switzerland, it has to have a redundant system in place in the event of pump
failure). So, I got 2 pumps for the price of one…my back up is still in
its little box waiting for it’s time. You’ll meet others on our group that
love the Minimed….so it’s a toss up . Have IIS bring you both pumps to
handle and play with. They did it for me…my endocrinolgist put me in
touch with the East coast rep here. This way you can look at both and check
out features. If your plan is going for the Disetronic, go for it…better
than paying more and getting less….Good Luck!!! and Welcome to the group!!!
Joan:)
August 30th, 2004 at 8:56 pm
<< So, I got 2 pumps for the price of one… >>
Im on the Minimed 507c and now wish I had checked into the Disetronic more.
I find that not having a pump that is waterproof, not just water resistant is
a pain. I live in AZ where in the summer you spend alot of your time at the
pool. I hate having to disconnect or wear the great big waterproof thing.
Do you know if there is a way to switch and get insurance coverage? Probably
not. Thanks. Chrissy