Many more choices for insulin pumps and CGM are becoming available to Medicare members as diabetes technologies continue to progress. And even more exciting, many companies are starting to work together more closely to integrate their separate insulin pump and CGM systems to create even greater advancements. In today's post, we want to point out the benefits of combining the Tandem t:slim X2 insulin pump with Dexcom continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) for better diabetes management.
The t:slim X2 pump can be upgraded when new technologies and features become available.
For example, Medicare members who qualify can currently access the Dexcom G5 CGM system, and we anticipate the more advanced Dexcom G6 system will be available to Medicare members on April 1st. If a patient is currently using the t:slim pump with a G5 system and upgrades to using the G6 system, all the patient will need to do is update his or her t:slim X2 pump with the latest software OR if they already have the t:slim pump with Basal IQ, they can integrate their Dexcom G6 after viewing a brief online training video. This ability to upgrade the insulin pump's software is unique to Tandem systems.
Medicare members are eligible for a new pump every five years, and in that time span there can be many advancements in diabetes technologies that can potentially leave a user behind on newer, beneficial improvements.
As we mentioned, with the Tandem t:slim pump, a Medicare member can easily update the pump to keep it current with the latest technology. This will soon prove a great benefit as we anticipate Tandem to release their "Control iQ" feature within the year. This will allow the pump, when paired with the Dexcom G6 system, to autonomously deliver more insulin when blood glucose levels are high.
The Tandem t:slim is an easy-to-read, color touchscreen pump - and it is super easy to use.
Want to try it out for yourself? Tandem offers a free simulator app for Medicare members to install on iPhone or Android devices right now. This simulator app provides users with the opportunity to test the experience of using the pump along with the Dexcom G6 system before deciding to make the purchase.