To get your Medicare diabetic supplies and equipment, you need a prescription from your doctor. The prescription should say:* You have been diagnosed with diabetes.
* What kind of blood sugar monitor you need. If, for instance, you need a special meter because of vision problems, your doctor must explain that.
* Whether you use insulin.
* How often you should test your blood sugar.
* How many test strips and lancets you need for one month.
Points to remember:
* Ask your doctor or health care provider if regular blood sugar testing is right for you.
* You need a prescription from your doctor to get your diabetes equipment and supplies under Medicare.
* Learn the correct way to use your blood sugar meter properly. Your pharmacist, doctor, diabetes educator, or another health care provider can help you.
* Keep track of your blood sugar readings and share them with your doctor or health care provider at regular visits.
* Do not accept shipments of diabetes equipment and supplies that you did not ask for.
If you would like more information about Medicare diabetic supplies and services, you may download a PDF brochure: www.medicare.gov/Publications/Pubs/pdf/11022.pdf
The Diabetic Care Club (DCC) is also a good source if you have questions about coverage. To find out if you qualify for a free DCC membership, just fill out and submit the form on the right side of this page and a DCC Diabetic Care Coordinator will call you back promptly. Or call directly, toll-free, at 1-800-840-7711. When you become a member, DCC files all Medicare claim forms for you -- and you'll never have to make an upfront payment. If you don't have secondary coverage, you may qualify for DCC's Financial Waiver Program, which waives the 20% not covered by Medicare.
This blog is associated with Simplex MD (simplexmd.com) and the Diabetes Care Club (diabetescareclub.com), sponsored by Simplex Healthcare.
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