Monday, March 21, 2016

Would They Cover It or Not

I know with the move to California meant getting new Physicians. I know I was so nervous my first visit with my family practice doctor at Kaiser Permanente. I know I ended up really liking the physician I ended up getting. She listens well and has helped me to navigate how Kaiser works. I know I am so used to having a health plan where I don't need referrals to see a doctor. I know the appointment that has made the most nervous so far was my visit with the Endocrinologist. I was so incredibly blessed to have had my old PA Amy who is my favorite physician I have ever worked with. I know I also had heard things about Kaiser not covering Dexcom sensors or CGMS in general except for certain patients who meet a special criteria. I know I have used the Dexcom for three years now and I don't know what I would do without it. Duchess does not alert at night so that leaves me incredibly vulnerable at night. So I was really scared that the new Endocrinologist would not give me the prescription for more Dexcom sensors.

When I went to my appointment I only had 3 Dexcom sensors left. I know John and I discussed that I would have to pay out of pocket worst case scenario for the sensors. I know that I needed the support during the appointment. I know when I meet him he was not a fan of how low my Alc is but I honestly don't work hard to get all my lows in general I tend to go regardless even when trying to run higher at times. I was surprised when the Endocrinologist asked for the list of supplies I needed he agreed immediately to put in a request of refills on my Dexcom sensors. I know the Endocrinologist made quite a few changes to my pump settings and wanted me to see the CDE. I know they wanted the CDE to assist me with looking at my numbers and Dexcom graphs monthly to help reduce the number of bad lows. I know after the recent seizures I was not surprised by this. I know I will only see the Endocrinologist twice a year through Kaiser. I also was really surprised that the Endocrinologist agreed to let me make the changes to my pump or discuss them before we make changes. I like to be treated like an adult and not a child when it comes to my health care.

Overall I was really pleasantly surprised by the Endocrinologist and was happy that he treated me with respect that I need in a physician. I know I feel like I was happy with my family practice Dr.'s referral and like that they listen to me as the patient. I know my Diabetes can be difficult to manage but I am happy that I do like my Dr. so far. I know my CDE was really great as well and she listens when I explain why I do things in a certain manner. She has very helpful and I hope that I will continue to work well with her. I know honestly getting my Dexcom supplies so quickly and not having to much except call was so nice. I know I was not sure if the different type of health plan would work for me but it really has been really good so far. I know I feel silly being incredibly stressed about being able to get the Dexcom Sensors. The best part is that John like my Endocrinologist now he is going to see him as well. 

2 comments:

  1. so happy for you, endo visits & changes are stressful !!

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    1. Change can be stressful but thankfully it went well. I will miss my old PA because she was incredible but at least I feel like this one listens to my concerns.

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