The T Slim X2 insulin pump manufactured by Tandem Diabetes Care is a great innovation because it automatically predicts blood sugar levels to adjust insulin doses. Thanks to this, we can prevent hypoglycemia and maintain glucose levels within the proper range. But, we should know what the T Slim x2 Cost is Without Insurance.
This insulin pump works with Basal-IQ technology, which received its FDA approval in 2019, and was launched later that summer. The T Slim X2 system connects to Dexcom’s continuous glucose monitor, allowing for an automatic shut-off if low insulin levels are detected.
Moreover, it can easily upgrade remotely from home, so new features can be integrated without buying a new pump every time a new feature is introduced.
Pros and cons of the T Slim X2
The T Slim X2 has both advantages and disadvantages for us to consider, which are as follows:
Advantages
- It is very easy to use and incorporates an easy-to-read touch screen.
- It connects directly to the Dexcom G6 CGM to display real-time glucose levels and several hours of past data.
- Protects against dangerous glucose levels by automatically turning off insulin.
- Allows us to turn off notifications and run in the background.
- Features a mobile app that will enable us to view insulin pump data.
Cons
- It does not address high glucose levels.
- It will depend on the Dexcom G6, and inaccurate readings or a faulty sensor could affect usage.
- It can become very expensive even with insurance coverage because we must purchase Dexcom CGM supplies.
What is Tandem Basal-IQ technology?
It is a technology built into the T Slim X2 device and is an algorithm responsible for keeping blood sugar levels within range. This system immediately interrupts insulin delivery when low blood glucose is predicted.
In cases where glucose falls below 70 mg/dL or is predicted to fall below 80 mg/dL in the next 30 minutes, the algorithm will go into action by stopping insulin delivery. The glucose will then begin to rise again. We can choose whether we want alerts to sound each time insulin delivery is stopped.
T: Connect mobile application
The Tandem brand launched its mobile app in 2020, allowing us to view insulin pump data easily from our cell phones. However, the app does not yet allow control of the insulin pump from the smartphone, but they are working with the FDA to get approval for that feature.
The analysis and exchange of data can be done at the moment. It will make it much easier to share data with our diabetes care team to help manage the disease.
Does Basal-IQ technology work?
According to the clinical studies that have been conducted using this technology, positive and impressive clinical results have been obtained. The predictive ability of the algorithm significantly reduces hypoglycemia without high levels of rebound, particularly in adults and children with type 1 diabetes.
This device has managed to stand head and shoulders above the competition, making it possible to have quite good results. In addition, of the users who have used the device, the vast majority have reported high levels of satisfaction and confidence in the device.
What is the difference between it and Control-IQ?
The Control-IQ system is Tandem’s newest and most advanced system, which the FDA approved in 2020. This system allows us to monitor both high and low insulin levels and improves time in the glucose range.
Both systems can work with the basic T Slim X2, but we cannot upgrade from one system to the other and then back. Therefore, if we upgrade our glucose pump with more advanced software, we will not be able to go back to the previous version.
However, we must consider the feedback from users, who often report a better performance of Basal-IQ. It is because it is a more flexible system that adapts better to each person’s lifestyle. For this reason, it is best to do our research before deciding on one system or the other.
Tandem insulin pump cost
Affordability is one of the main problems encountered by users who want to buy an insulin pump. These systems can be expensive even if we have insurance, so purchasing these devices is not always easy.
If we don’t have insurance, the Tandem T Slim X2 can cost $4,000, but with insurance, some plans will cover almost 80% of this cost. On the other hand, for the Dexcom G6 CGM, when we factor in the 10-day sensors and 90-day transmitters, the annual cost can be about $6,000 per year, which will be $500 per month.
It is best to check for manufacturer discounts because these devices can be very expensive, especially since they do not work without their respective accessories.
What are the alternative options to Basal-IQ?
As of 2021, Medtronic is the only other company option that offers a partially automated insulin delivery system. It has the MiniMed 770G device, which combines an insulin pump with a Medtronic CGM, which incorporates a control algorithm and apps for tracking.
This option addresses both high and low blood sugar levels, and one advantage is that this company manufactures both the insulin pump and the CGM. Thus, we can get the whole deal with one manufacturer. On the downside, these devices do not incorporate touch screens, and some users claim that they are less comfortable to use than Dexcom.
On the other hand, we come across the Bigfoot Unity automated insulin delivery system, an insulin pen system with a CGM. It provides many advantages for managing diabetes with multiple daily injections.
However, none of these systems can compare with Basal-IQ, mainly because it is a system that allows high accuracy to be achieved. But its high price makes it not an affordable option for all users, even if they have health insurance because it does not cover the full cost of the device.