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BCBS covers insulin pumps and supplies for eligible members, which includes those with a medical necessity diagnosis and a valid prescription.
The coverage varies by state and plan, with some plans covering insulin pumps and supplies in full, while others may have copays or coinsurance.
Members can expect to pay a copay of $25 to $50 per prescription for insulin pump supplies, depending on their plan.
Insulin pump supplies are covered for up to 3 years or more, depending on the plan.
BCBS Insulin Pump Coverage Overview
If you're considering an insulin pump, you'll be happy to know that Excellus BlueCross BlueShield covers insulin pumps as part of their diabetes management supplies.
Excellus BlueCross BlueShield considers insulin pumps as covered items, which means your insurance plan will pay for it.
You'll have no out-of-pocket costs for the insulin pump itself, as it's a covered item under your Part D benefit.
Insulin Pump Coverage Details
Insulin pump coverage is a crucial aspect of managing your diabetes, and it's good to know that Excellus BlueCross BlueShield has got you covered.
You'll pay a $35 maximum copay for any insulin used in your insulin pump and filled at an in-network pharmacy or durable medical (DME) provider.
Insulin pump supplies, such as those needed to use the pump, are also covered under your insurance plan.
The Part B deductible does not apply to insulin filled under the Part B benefit, which is a relief for those who rely on their insulin pump for managing their diabetes.
What is Covered
Insulin is covered under your Part B benefit if you use it in a traditional insulin pump, and you'll pay a $35 maximum copay for any insulin filled at an in-network pharmacy or durable medical (DME) provider.
The Part B deductible does not apply to insulin filled under the Part B benefit, which is a big relief for those who rely on insulin pumps for their diabetes management.
Insulin pumps and their supplies are considered covered items under health insurance, including the supplies needed to use the pump.
You can also get a one-month supply of covered insulin for no more than $35 through the deductible and initial phases of the Part D benefit, with your copay varying depending on your plan.
This means that you can focus on managing your diabetes without worrying about the cost of insulin, and that's a huge weight off your shoulders.
What is Not Covered
Insulin pumps are not covered for people with type 2 diabetes who are not taking insulin.
Traveling with an insulin pump can be expensive, especially if you're traveling internationally, as you may need to purchase a pump and supplies in the destination country.
Some insurance plans may not cover insulin pumps for children under the age of 13.
Insulin pump accessories, such as infusion sets and reservoirs, are not always covered by insurance plans.
Some insurance plans may not cover insulin pumps for people who are not using them continuously, such as those who only use them for exercise or travel.
How it Works
Insulin pumps are small devices that deliver insulin continuously throughout the day. They're typically worn on the body, attached to a small tube that's inserted under the skin.
A pump can hold up to 300 units of insulin, which is usually enough for a full day. This amount can vary depending on individual needs.
Insulin pumps use a small reservoir to store insulin, which is then delivered to the body through a tube and cannula. The pump's computer controls the amount of insulin released.
The pump can be programmed to deliver insulin at set times or based on blood glucose levels. This allows for more flexible dosing and better glucose control.
Some pumps have features like bolus calculators, which help users determine the right dose of insulin for meals. Others have alarms that alert users when it's time for a dose.
Pumps can be filled with insulin at home, and users can adjust the settings as needed. This flexibility makes it easier to manage blood glucose levels throughout the day.
Impact on Coverage
The impact of insulin pump coverage on individuals with diabetes can be significant. For those with private insurance, coverage varies widely depending on the plan.
Many insurance plans require a prescription and a diagnosis from a healthcare provider to qualify for insulin pump coverage.
Some plans have a specific list of approved insulin pumps, while others may cover any pump that meets FDA standards.
For those with Medicare, coverage is generally more comprehensive, but still requires a prescription and a diagnosis from a healthcare provider.
Medicare covers insulin pumps that meet FDA standards, and the cost is typically covered under the durable medical equipment (DME) benefit.
Coordination of Benefits
Having multiple health plans can be a blessing, but it can also create confusion about who pays what.
If you have more than one health plan, a Coordination of Benefits will determine the order each company will pay.
Your primary insurance plan will pay its percentage for the claim, and the remainder will be billed to the secondary insurance.
This means having a secondary insurance plan does not guarantee it will pay what the primary does not.
In most cases, if you receive insurance coverage through your employer, this plan functions as the primary while any other plan would be secondary.
One Last Note
If you experience challenges in gaining access to your preferred treatment or device, it's because of the agreements and contracts that your health insurance plan has with specific manufacturers. These contracts can affect your medication's formulary tier placement, the price paid by the plan, your costs, or the specific brand covered.
You may get a denial of coverage for your treatment if your insurance plan doesn't have a contract with the manufacturer of your preferred brand of insulin pump, CGM, or insulin. This is a common issue that people face when trying to access their preferred treatment.
To resolve this issue, you can request an exception that requires your plan to cover your preferred option. This is a viable solution if you learn that your denial is specific to your particular brand, while other brands are covered.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average cost of an insulin pump?
The average cost of an insulin pump is around $6,500 or more, depending on the model and features. Without insurance coverage, this cost can be a significant expense for individuals with diabetes.
How can I insure my insulin pump?
Talk to your health professional for help with insurance claims, and your hospital may also provide necessary documentation to support your application
Sources
- https://medicare.excellusbcbs.com/prescriptions/save-money/insulin-diabetic-supplies
- https://www.breakthrought1d.org/t1d-resources/insurance/issues-around-insulin-pumps/
- https://securecms.bluecrossmnonline.com/content/medpolicy/en/minnesota/core/all/policies/Ancillary_Services/VII-05/VII-05-008.html
- https://www.freestyle.abbott/us-en/cost.html
- https://www.medtronicdiabetes.com/insurance-term
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