They are giving me a trade in allowance.

>>

Thank goodness. Chrissy

They are giving me a trade in allowance.

David

David

Arent they like $4000? Chrissy

Once I get the denial, then I qualify for supplies.

Then, I may go for the 508 on a private deal.

Not sure why I really need a 508; the 507 works just fine, but the warranty
expires in November.

David

Patrick

I agree…you’ve got your information! I just went through about 300
posts…so when I wrote my response I hadn’t seen all the others!
Oops!

I too would be amazed if the Paradigm has been upgraded the
the "current" model yet! When I left the office last month, medicare
would only cover the 507 (506 was a typo)…I’m sure that due to
supply issues the refurbished 508 is the new standard…I just had no
access to that information. Which is why they won’t cover upgrades.
It stinks! I know that for new pumpers who qualify at least they
have an option to pump…but noone should be restricted to
a "previous" model standard like this policy basically does. Of
course many private insurances still refuse to pay for an upgrade if

the current pump is working, but most will consider an upgrade once
the warranty runs out. Unfortunately like everything else the gov’t
programs run behind the private industry.

Getting a pump through Medicare is a perfect example of too much red
tape and regulation, the process needs improving, but the guidance
and control isn’t there to do so very quickly.

One question, did you actually get a denial from your Medicare
carrier (a hard copy)? You should have. I’d be curious to see
exactly what they use as the denial reason. It might also be helpful
for us to reference when we start sending letters to Congress
demanding Medicare improvement.

Suzanna

I have been receiving 250 per month for five years now, and have never had a
problem. Medicare always has paid, and the Medigap has always paid the rest.

I get stung occasionally in January due to the $100 deductible being declined,
as the Medigap does not pay for non preferred providers; the moral here is to
always see an MD in early January (be sure NO other Medicare charges appear
before that) who qualifies, and make sure they charge at least $100! Rules,
Rules Rules…..

David

It came directly from the Minimed specialist at their home office (Molly Gordon.

The 508 they supply is refurbished. I have no idea if the Paradigm has been
approved yet; I tend to think not.

But, if you already have a pump (504, 506, 507, doesn’t matter; Medicare will
not approve a pump! They consider that since you already have one, you don’t
need another, regardless of the model. So, I am out of luck due to that (I am
on my 3rd pump at this point).

So I am looking at springing for a 508 out of my own pocket, and then getting
the free upgrade to the Paradigm later. At this point, I am not sure I want

the Paradigm; not enough capacity. When U200 insulin comes on the market, that
will change my attitude.

I would suggest that you call Molly Gordon, Medicare Specialist, (x5364) and
get her opinion directly….

David