Beta Bionics iLet Bionic Pancreas: Celebrating Freedom from Carb Counting
In May 2023, the FDA approved the Beta Bionics iLet Bionic Pancreas insulin pump for individuals 6 years and older. This is the first automated insulin delivery (AID) system to eliminate the need to enter carbohydrate (carb) counts for meals or snacks.
With over 1 million people worldwide utilizing insulin pump therapy, removing the intricate skill of carb counting has grabbed the attention of the diabetes community.¹
Diabetes is a disease that can be overwhelming, causing a substantial risk of distress and burnout. As a diabetes health care professionals, you help individuals living with diabetes choose technology to enhance their self-management and reduce some of the associated burdens.
Key Features
The iLet Bionic Pancreas is a continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) system, also commonly referred to as an insulin pump. Like other tubed insulin pumps on the market, it features a small cartridge that holds insulin, an operating system that delivers the insulin, integration with a continuous glucose monitor (CGM), and is connected to the body via tubing with an insertion set.
CGM compatibility includes:
☑️ Dexcom G6
☑️ Dexcom G7
☑️ Libre 3+
The Bionic Circle app enables iLet users to invite up to 10 friends or family members to view alerts, blood glucose trends, meal announcements, and insulin doses. Healthcare providers utilize the Healthcare Provider Bionic Portal to download iLet data for review during office visits or for remote patient monitoring.
But How Is iLet Different?
The most significant difference with the iLet is that there are NO traditional pump settings. The only initial settings used are the individual’s weight and target range. Because there are no traditional settings, there is no user input for corrections or carb counting.
Three different algorithms drive insulin delivery. Let’s look at each algorithm²:
Basal Algorithm
- The original basal profile is developed based on the individual’s weight; however, over time, the system continually adapts the basal profile using continuous glucose monitor (CGM) data.
Corrections Algorithm
- Based on CGM data, the algorithm adds additional insulin beyond the basal requirements every 5 minutes, aiming to maintain blood glucose within the predetermined target rang.
Meal Announcement Algorithm
- When the individual announces a meal, the system customizes the insulin delivery based on dosing history for similar-sized meals.
- It determines and adapts meal types separately (breakfast, lunch, or dinner). Initially, the meal dose is calculated, just like the basal rate, and then postprandial corrections are applied if necessary. Based on this data, the system will continuously adapt to individualize the insulin needs based on the size of meals.
- The only decisions made at meal announcements are:
- Choosing the meal: breakfast, lunch, or dinner
- Choosing the size of the meal: If the meal is the usual amount of carbs, smaller, or larger
The only adjustable setting is the glucose target range. There are three different glucose targets to choose from. Two different blood glucose targets can be set within a 24-hour period.³
- 🩸Higher (130 mg/dL)
- 🩸Usual (120 mg/dL)
- 🩸Lower (110 mg/dL)
The Educator’s Perspective
When using the iLet there are a few crucial points to consider:
🥖 Carbohydrate education is not gone! Although no carb counting is required, clients must be aware of carbs. They will still need a basic understanding of which foods contain carbs to accurately determine the size of the meal.
📲 There are no traditional pump settings to manage. The only setting that can be changed is the target range. Education is key for clients who would self-adjust pump settings with previous insulin pumps.
🏃♂️ Managing exercise has changed. There is no exercise mode, activity mode, or temp basal setting to adjust insulin delivery for physical activity. Please see tips from Beta Bionics on managing physical activity with the iLet at https://www.betabionics.com/articles/exercise/.
As a diabetes healthcare professional, you support individuals living with diabetes in setting personalized goals and developing tailored treatment plans. After assessing the client’s needs and barriers, you may find that they are overwhelmed or distressed by the constant need for carb counting. You may also find those who prefer to be ‘hands-off’ with their diabetes for many reasons. These individuals may find that an AID system like the iLet can improve glycemic control without increasing treatment burden.
If you’re looking for more information on diabetes technology or identifying barriers to self-management, join our 2-Day Training Seminar in San Diego to help those living with diabetes continue to thrive.
References
-
Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialists. (n.d.). The DCES and pump therapy. Danatech Diabetes Technology. https://www.adces.org/education/danatech/insulin-pumps/pumps-in-professional-practice/dces’s-and-pump-therapy
-
Beta Bionics. (n.d.). HCP webinars. https://www.betabionics.com/hcp/hcp-webinars/
- Beta Bionics (n.d.). Healthcare provider resources. https://www.betabionics.com/hcp/hcp-resources/
Live in San Diego
DiabetesEd Training Seminar
30+ CEs with Expanded Accreditation!
Join our expert team for engaging, interactive sessions that bring the ADA Standards of Care to life—covering medications, behavior change, technology, and more. Ideal for CDCES or BC-ADM exam prep, this course also includes a 4-hour Virtual Medical Nutrition Therapy Toolkit and bonus content that also meets CDCES renewal requirements. See Training Schedule Here >>
Program Objectives:
Upon completion of this activity, participants should be able to:
- Describe the current ADA Standards for diagnosis, goals, and person-centered diabetes management across the lifespan.
- Demonstrate insulin pattern management and dosing strategies in clinical scenarios.
- Implement timely screening and risk reduction strategies for microvascular and cardiovascular complications.
- Incorporate behavior change techniques and medical nutrition therapy to support people with diabetes self-management and lifestyle adjustment.
Expert Faculty:
Diana Isaacs, PharmD, BCPS, BCACP, CDCES, BC-ADM, FADCES, FCCPCES
Beverly Thomassian, RN, MPH, CDCES, BC-ADM
Faculty Bios & Disclosures
Our expert team transforms complex diabetes science into clear, practical insights—keeping it real, engaging, and fun!
Program Faculty Disclosures:
Partners for Advancing Clinical Education (Partners) requires every individual in a position to control educational content to disclose all financial relationships with ineligible companies that have occurred within the past 24 months. Ineligible companies are organizations whose primary business is producing, marketing, selling, re-selling, or distributing healthcare products used by or on patients.
All relevant financial relationships for anyone with the ability to control the content of this educational activity are listed below and have been mitigated according to Partners policies. Others involved in the planning of this activity have no relevant financial relationships.
Faculy Bios & Disclosures:
Coach Beverly Thomassian RN, MPH, CDCES, BC-ADM – CEO of DiabetesEd ServicesDisclosures:
Beverly Thomassian has no financial disclosures
Bio:
Diana Isaacs, PharmD, BCPS, BCACP, CDCES, BC-ADM, FADCES, FCCPCES
Disclosures:
Dr. Diana Isaacs has the following relevant financial relationships:
- Consultant, advisor, and speaker for Abbot Labratories, Dexcom, Medtronic, Insulet, Lilly, Cequr, Sanofi, and Undermyfork
- Board member at Association for Diabetes Care and Education Specialists
Bio:
Diana Isaacs was awarded 2020 ADCES Diabetes Educator of the Year for her educational platform promoting the use of CGM for people with diabetes and other innovations. She serves in leadership roles for several pharmacies and diabetes organizations. She has numerous diabetes publications and research projects with a focus on medications, CGM and diabetes technology.
For the past three year, Dr. Isaacs has served as a contributing author for the 2023 ADA Standards of Care.
As the Program Coordinator and clinical pharmacist specialist in the Cleveland Clinic Diabetes Center, Dr. Isaacs brings a wealth of clinical knowledge combined with extensive research and speaking experience to this program.
Expanded Accreditation
Activity Start and End Date: 10/22/25 – 10/23/2025
Estimated time to complete the activity: 15 hours and 30 minutes
_____________________________________
Jointly provided by Partners for Advancing Clinical Education and Diabetes Education Services
Joint Accreditation Statement:
In support of improving patient care, this activity has been planned and implemented by Partners for Advancing Clinical Education (Partners) and Diabetes Education Services. Partners is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.
Physician Continuing Education:
Partners designates this enduring material for a maximum of 15.50 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
Nursing Continuing Professional Development:
The maximum number of hours awarded for this Nursing Continuing Professional Development activity is 15.50 contact hours.
Pharmacy Continuing Education:
Partners designates this continuing education activity for 15.50 contact hour(s) (1.550 CEUs) of the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education.
(Universal Activity Number – JA4008073-9999-25-206-L01-P)
Type of Activity: Application
For Pharmacists: Upon successfully completing the activity evaluation form, transcript information will be sent to the NABP CPE Monitor Service within 4 weeks.
Dietitian Continuing Education:
This program offers 15.50 CPEUs for dietitians.
Interprofessional Continuing Education:
This activity was planned by and for the healthcare team, and learners will receive 15.50 Interprofessional Continuing Education (IPCE) credit for learning and change.
For additional information about the accreditation of this activity, please visit https://partnersed.com.
The use of DES products does not guarantee the successful passage of the certification exam. CBDCE and ADCES do not endorse any preparatory or review materials for the CDCES or BC-ADM exams, except for those published by CBDCE & ADCES.
New Tubeless Insulin Delivery System Approved for Toddlers
The FDA just authorized the Insulet Omnipod 5 tubeless insulin delivery system for pediatrics with type 1 diabetes starting as young as age 2. This remarkable moment marks the availability of the world’s first tubeless, wearable insulin delivery system for toddlers.
The Omnipod 5 received FDA approval earlier this year for integration with the Dexcom G6 continuous glucose monitor for adults and kids with type 1, but Insulet also petitioned the FDA to approve this technology for toddlers.
First Tubeless Hybrid Closed Loop System
This first tubeless hybrid closed loop system to receive FDA authorization includes the Omnipod 5, Dexcom G6 CGM and a phone app or controller to manage insulin delivery and monitor glucose levels. The Omnipod holds three days worth of insulin in a pod delivery device without the need for tubing, which can be helpful for active toddlers. No calibration or fingersticks are required.
As a hybrid loop system, the Omnipod and Dexcom are continuously data sharing, so most of the insulin delivery is automated. However, users can make needed adjustments, deliver bolus insulin and easily share data with the smartphone app or Ominpod 5 Controller.
Promising Outcome Data
Based on a study presented at the annual ADA Scientific Session, children with type 1 diabetes experienced a drop in A1C levels from a baseline of 7.4% to 6.9% and they remained at this improved A1C level for one year into the study. Time in range also increased from 57% at baseline to 68% after using the Omnipod 5 for three months. In addition, there were no reported cases of DKA or severe hypoglycemia. For more information on the latest in insulin pumps and CGMs, please join our Virtual Conference with technology expert Diana Issacs. In addition to explaining the technology, she provides an awesome “show and tell”.
Lila Grace Moss wears Omnipod on Runway
On a related note, I would like to give recognition to the courageous Lila Grace Moss, who lives with type 1 diabetes. On a recent runway show, she did not shy away from wearing her Omnipod as she modeled the latest fashion styles with camera’s clicking and hundreds of audience members.
Social media took note and many instagram followers thanked Lila for her bold and brave statement.
Thanks Lila!
Want to learn more about Technology and Diabetes Care? Join us for our
Virtual DiabetesEd Training Conference
30+ CEs
Airs October 12-14th, 2022
Join us LIVE for this Virtual Training Conference and enjoy a sense of community!
Whether you are new to diabetes or a seasoned expert, you’ll benefit from this virtual conference with the latest research plus critical content that you can immediately apply to your clinical practice.
Download Course Flyer | Download Schedule
If you are seeking a state-of-the-art review of current diabetes care, this course is for you. Our team has been fine-tuning this course for over fifteen years, and we know what you need. This program can also be a great addition to your CDCES or BC-ADM exam study plan.
Team of expert faculty includes:
- Diana Isaacs, PharmD, BCPS, BC-ADM, BCACP, CDCES – Educator of the Year, 2020
- Coach Beverly Thomassian, RN, MPH, CDCES, BC-ADM
- Ashley LaBrier, MS, RD, CDCES, Diabetes Program Coordinator
Two Registration Options
Don’t worry if you can’t make it live. Your registration guarantees access to the recorded version in the Online University.
All hours earned count toward your CDCES Accreditation Information
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The use of DES products does not guarantee the successful passage of the CDCES exam. CBDCE does not endorse any preparatory or review materials for the CDCES exam, except for those published by CBDCE.
A CGM that only needs Changing Twice a Year?
An implantable Continuous Glucose Monitor about the size of a matchstick, that only needs to be changed every 180 days, received approved by the FDA this February.
Eversense E3 will be available later this year, for people 18 and over. This implanted sensor determines interstitial glucose readings for 180 days. Sensor data is captured by a small transmitter patch that adheres to the skin, near the implanted device. The transmitter is rechargeable and sends glucose readings data via bluetooth connection to a mobile device. Users can download the mobile app on both iOS and Android devices to monitor glucose trends every 5 minutes and set custom alarms for highs and lows.
The transmitter patch is changed daily and can be set to vibrate as an alarm to alert the user of hypo and hyperglycemia.
To assure accuracy, sensor calibration is required twice per day for the first 21 days of wear. After day 21, once a day calibration a day is required.
In the PROMISE study, researchers analyzed the safety and accuracy of the Eversense E3 in 181 adults age 18 and up. Results showed that the Eversense E3 was very accurate, with a MARD of 8.5%. The accuracy of the Eversense E3 was also better than any currently available CGM on the market – though it does require daily meter calibrations.
According to Senseonics, the medical technology company that created the implantable device, the out-of-pocket cost will be the same as their original 90-day sensor. Most insurance companies should cover the cost of the device and for insertion and removal.
Senseonics has partnered with Ascencia Diabetes Care (the maker of the Contour blood glucose meters). Ascencia will handle the marketing and distribution of the Eversense products. Plus, Ascencia will offer a Patient Assistance Program that can save users up to $1,200 a year. To learn more, you can contact Ascencia here.
To read more about the Eversense E3, click here.
Want to learn more about this topic and more?
Join us and benefit from Diana Isaacs, PharmD, BCPS, BC-ADM, BCACP, CDCES, an expert who will be delving into medications and side effects.
Virtual DiabetesEd Specialist Conference
30+ CEs | April 13-15, 2022
Whether you are new to diabetes or a seasoned expert, you’ll benefit from this virtual conference with the latest research plus critical content that you can immediately apply to your clinical practice.
Download Course Schedule | Download Course Flyer
If you are seeking a state-of-the-art review of current diabetes care, this course is for you. Our team has been fine-tuning this course for over fifteen years, and we know what you need. This program can also be a great addition to your CDCES or BC-ADM exam study plan.
Join us LIVE for this Virtual Course and enjoy a sense of community!
Team of expert faculty includes:
- Diana Isaacs, PharmD, BCPS, BC-ADM, BCACP, CDCES – Educator of the Year, 2020
- Coach Beverly Thomassian, RN, MPH, CDCES, BC-ADM
- Ashley LaBrier, MS, RD, CDCES, Diabetes Program Coordinator
Two Registration Options
Virtual DiabetesEd Specialist Conference Deluxe | 30+ CEs
Deluxe Option for $499: Virtual Program includes:
- Q & A Session with the instructor after each webinar.
- LIVE Presentations by our team of experts.
- State of the art review of current diabetes care and technology.
- Resources for each session.
- Access to free podcasts and video recordings within a week of each live session for one year.
Deluxe Version includes Syllabus, Standards and Swag*:
- Diabetes Educator Course 2022 Syllabus Hard Copy – over 100 pages -This spiral-bound workbook contains the printed version of all of the instructor’s slides.
- ADA 2022 Standards of Care Book -The ADA Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes is a key resource for healthcare professionals involved in diabetes care, education, and support.
- DiabetesEd Services highlighters, Medication PocketCard, Tote Bag and Pen
Virtual DiabetesEd Specialist Conference Basic | 30+ CEs
Deluxe Option for $499: Virtual Program includes:
- Q & A Session with the instructor after each webinar.
- LIVE Presentations by our team of experts.
- State of the art review of current diabetes care and technology.
- Resources for each session.
- Access to free podcasts and video recordings within a week of each live session for one year.
Don’t worry if you can’t make it live. Your registration guarantees access to the recorded version in the Online University.
All hours earned count toward your CDCES Accreditation Information
Sign up for Diabetes Blog Bytes – we post one daily Blog Byte from Monday to Friday. And of course, Tuesday is our Question of the Week. It’s Informative and FREE! Sign up below!
The use of DES products does not guarantee the successful passage of the CDCES exam. CBDCE does not endorse any preparatory or review materials for the CDCES exam, except for those published by CBDCE.
The OmniPod and DexCom Finally Hook Up (and no tubing)
The first tubeless Automated Insulin Delivery (AID) System, was just approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The Omnipod 5 hybrid closed-loop system (Insulet Corporation) links with Dexcom’s G6 Continuous Glucose Monitor and is now FDA approved for people with type 1 diabetes age six and older.
This anxiously awaited approval now means that there are 3 semi-automated closed-loop insulin delivery systems in the United States.
A unique feature of the Omnipod 5 system, is that it includes the first approved tubing free insulin delivery device that is paired with the Dexcom G6 continuous glucose monitor (CGM). The Omnipod holds up to 3 days of insulin and is worn directly on the body.
Omnipod 5 Users can monitor glucose trends and deliver insulin using a smartphone app or a separate controller device. Plus, this SmartAdjust technology automatically adjusts insulin to keep glucose on target and minimize hypo and hyperglycemic events.
Included in the app is a SmartBolus calculator that receives Dexcom CGM values every 5 minutes and automatically adjusts insulin based on predicted values for 60 minutes into the future and the individual’s customized glucose targets.
Insulet said it will begin selling the prescription Omnipod 5 device through U.S. pharmacies, starting with an initially limited release before expanding its commercial reach. The company is also offering users of its current Omnipod DASH system—a more manual tubeless pump—an upgrade to the Omnipod 5 at no additional cost once insurance coverage becomes available.
Read more here Omniopod approved by FDA.
Want to learn more about this topic?
Join our Virtual DiabetesEd Specialist Conference
30+ CEs | April 13-15, 2022
Whether you are new to diabetes or a seasoned expert, you’ll benefit from this virtual conference with the latest research plus critical content that you can immediately apply to your clinical practice.
If you are seeking a state-of-the-art review of current diabetes care, this course is for you. Our team has been fine-tuning this course for over fifteen years, and we know what you need. This program can also be a great addition to your CDCES or BC-ADM exam study plan.
Download Course Schedule | Download Course Flyer
Join us LIVE for this Virtual Course and enjoy a sense of community!
Team of expert faculty includes:
- Diana Isaacs, PharmD, BCPS, BC-ADM, BCACP, CDCES – Educator of the Year, 2020
- Coach Beverly Thomassian, RN, MPH, CDCES, BC-ADM
- Ashley LaBrier, MS, RD, CDCES, Diabetes Program Coordinator
Two Registration Options
Virtual DiabetesEd Specialist Conference Deluxe | 30+ CEs
Deluxe Option for $499: Virtual Program includes:
- Q & A Session with the instructor after each webinar.
- LIVE Presentations by our team of experts.
- State of the art review of current diabetes care and technology.
- Resources for each session.
- Access to free podcasts and video recordings within a week of each live session for one year.
Deluxe Version includes Syllabus, Standards and Swag*:
- Diabetes Educator Course 2022 Syllabus Hard Copy – over 100 pages -This spiral-bound workbook contains the printed version of all of the instructor’s slides.
- ADA 2022 Standards of Care Book -The ADA Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes is a key resource for healthcare professionals involved in diabetes care, education, and support.
- DiabetesEd Services highlighters, Medication PocketCard, Tote Bag and Pen
Virtual DiabetesEd Specialist Conference Basic | 30+ CEs
Deluxe Option for $499: Virtual Program includes:
- Q & A Session with the instructor after each webinar.
- LIVE Presentations by our team of experts.
- State of the art review of current diabetes care and technology.
- Resources for each session.
- Access to free podcasts and video recordings within a week of each live session for one year.
Don’t worry if you can’t make it live. Your registration guarantees access to the recorded version in the Online University.
All hours earned count toward your CDCES Accreditation Information
Sign up for Diabetes Blog Bytes – we post one daily Blog Byte from Monday to Friday. And of course, Tuesday is our Question of the Week. It’s Informative and FREE! Sign up below!
[yikes-mailchimp form=”1″]The use of DES products does not guarantee the successful passage of the CDCES exam. CBDCE does not endorse any preparatory or review materials for the CDCES exam, except for those published by CBDCE.
New Treatment for Type 1 Diabetes | VX-880
Vertex Pharmaceuticals just announced preliminary results from a trial that explores a new intervention to treat type 1 diabetes. The early results are very promising.
The first person with type 1 diabetes to receive this new stem-cell derived experimental therapy, had an 91% drop in their insulin needs. The person has lived with type 1 for over 40 years. After the intervention, they not only experienced a reduction in their insulin needs, their fasting C-peptide levels went from undetectable to 280. This dramatic C-peptide increase is a clinical indicator of stem-cell therapy success and endogenous insulin secretion.
These results are exciting and offer hope for a potential new treatment approach for type 1 diabetes.
VX-880 is a stem cell derived therapy that replaces damaged beta cells with healthy transplanted insulin producing cells in clinical trials. However, these new cells are at risk for attack by the body’s immune system, so immunosuppression therapy is currently required for stem-cell transplant success.
The future goal is to create a version of this treatment that doesn’t require immunosuppressive therapy. And Vertex, the makers of VX-880 are working on creating an encapsulated islet cell program that doesn’t initiate an autoimmune attack.
For more information and clinical trials, click this link.
Resources for People Living with Type 1 Diabetes
Below is a list of helpful online resources for Type 1 Diabetes. They include sites for national organizations like the American Diabetes Association (ADA), sites for diabetes interest groups, and other participant organizations that provide helpful diabetes tips and opportunities to join online groups. Click here for a Type 1 Resource Handout to share with colleagues and people living with type 1 diabetes.
Click the links below to visit the website:
- Let’s fight Type 1 Together | American Diabetes Association (ADA)
- Mental Health Resources Directory | ADA
- Type 1 Diabetes Resources and Support | Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation: Explore our informational guides or make a personal connection with someone experienced with type 1 diabetes (T1D). The JDRF community has you covered.
- Empowering Youth with Type 1 Diabetes |The Chris Dudley Foundation
- The National Institutes of Health Diabetes Resources | CDC
- The College Diabetes Network: Focuses Specifically on Young Adults with Diabetes | College Diabetes Network
- The Diabulimia Helpline: for Individuals Having Eating Problems
- Beyond Type 1 Diabetes
- Connected in Motion: Peer-Based Sports & Outdoor Adventures for those with Type 1 (in U.S. and Canada) | Connected In Motion
- Diatribe: Library of Online Resources, Blog & Community Forums
- Diabetes Education: At times it might seem overwhelming, but you can thrive with diabetes, and a Diabetes Care and Education Specialist can help. Includes a link to find a diabetes program near you.
Sign up for Diabetes Blog Bytes – we post one daily Blog Byte from Monday to Friday. And of course, Tuesday is our Question of the Week. It’s Informative and FREE! Sign up below!
[yikes-mailchimp form=”1″]Cheat Sheets Now on CDCES Coach App | Free Resource Friday
Our new Diabetes Cheat Sheets are available on our CDCES Coach app!
We know how helpful these resources are for busy diabetes educations specialists so we wanted to make accessing them even easier!
If you don’t have it already, you can download our free CDCES Coach app and view or print the Cheat Sheets directly from the app.
These sheets and cards include information to study for certification exams and to use in your clinical setting. Plus, we have included teaching sheets for people with diabetes.
Studying for the CDCES Exam?
Join us for our free Preparing for the CDCES Exam Webinar on October 1st at 11:30 am
FREE webinar, October 1, 2020, from 11:30 a.m. – 12:45 p.m. (PST)
Unsure about updates for the 2020 exam?
Coach Beverly offers this FREE webinar to help get you to prepare for the CDCES Exam. All her tips and tricks are meant to ease your mind and reflect the updates to the CDCES content outline.
Topics Covered Include:
- Implications of new certification name, CDCES for our specialty
- Exam requirement updates for 2020
- Exam eligibility and test format
- Strategies to succeed along with a review of study tips and test-taking tactics.
- We will review sample test questions and the reasoning behind choosing the right answers.
- Learn how to focus your time and prepare to take the CDCES Exam. We provide plenty of sample test questions and test-taking tips!
Instructor: Beverly Thomassian RN, MPH, CDCES, BC-ADM is a working educator who has passed her CDCES Exam 6 times. She is a nationally recognized diabetes expert for over 25 years.
See our Preparing for CDCES Resource Page >>
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[yikes-mailchimp form=”1″]Accreditation: Diabetes Education Services is an approved provider by the California Board of Registered Nursing, Provider 12640, and Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR), Provider DI002. Since these programs are approved by the CDR it satisfies the CE requirements for the CDCES regardless of your profession.*
The use of DES products does not guarantee the successful passage of the CDCES exam. CBDCE does not endorse any preparatory or review materials for the CDCES exam, except for those published by CBDCE.
CGMs Lead to Cost Savings
For people with type 1 diabetes, access to Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) technology, is considered a standard of care by most experts.
There is plenty of research that demonstrates CGM use is associated with not only improved A1c but significantly decreases time in hypoglycemic range and ketoacidosis rates.
Researchers wondered if this translates into cost savings?
YES.
According to a study presented at the Heart in Diabetes virtual meeting.
After three years of follow-up, the savings were substantial.
- Multiple daily injection plus CGM users saved between $5,777 and $8,549.
- CGM users with continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion saved between $2,732 and $4,753 per person, compared with non-CGM users.
“In this study, we showed that it didn’t make any difference how you deliver insulin,” Grunberger said. “This difference is in how you monitor glucose.”
George Grunberger, MD, FACP, MACE, Chairman Grunberger Diabetes Institute and more
Glucose Crises are Expensive
According to Grunberger, the cost of diabetes ketoacidosis (DKA) in the U.S. is over 5 billion dollars a year.
Having a CGM reduces DKA rates, hospitalization, and leads to cost savings.
A study in the United Kingdom showed that for 900 people using the Freestyle Libre (Abbott), DKA episodes were reduced by 80% within six months of using this device.
A study in Belgium followed 1,913 people with type 1 diabetes using the Freestyle Libre CGM.
Not only did they see a dramatic reduction in hospitalizations from DKA and hypoglycemia, but the researchers also observed a fifty percent drop in work absenteeism.
The data shows CGM’s are associated with cost savings due to less diabetes emergencies and decreased work absenteeism.
Full Story: Healio (free registration)/Endocrine Today (8/31)
Sign up for Diabetes Blog Bytes – we post one daily Blog Byte from Monday to Friday. And of course, Tuesday is our Question of the Week. It’s Informative and FREE! Sign up below!
[yikes-mailchimp form=”1″]Accreditation: Diabetes Education Services is an approved provider by the California Board of Registered Nursing, Provider 12640, and Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR), Provider DI002. Since these programs are approved by the CDR it satisfies the CE requirements for the CDCES regardless of your profession.*
The use of DES products does not guarantee the successful passage of the CDCES exam. CBDCE does not endorse any preparatory or review materials for the CDCES exam, except for those published by CBDCE.
[yikes-mailchimp form=”1″]Smart Insulin Pen Delivers for All Ages
The InPen smartpen, by Companian Medical, is now FDA approved for all ages!
The Inpen is a reusable battery-powered insulin pen that uses insulin cartridges. It is approved for use with three different insulins; Novolog, Humalog, and Fiasp. It can deliver insulin in half-unit doses plus it monitors insulin temperature. The battery lasts for a year and requires no charging.
“We are excited that we can help younger children and even more parents navigate the challenges associated with Type 1 diabetes. Now anyone can safely use InPen to help make decisions around insulin dosing, no matter what their age,”
Sean Saint, CEO and co-founder of Companion Medical.
What makes the InPen so unique?
In addition to all these features, the InPen Bluetooth enabled software allows users to connect to a FREE app on their Apple iOS or Android mobile device to track and share insulin dosing and glucose levels.
New users enter their insulin to carb ratios and insulin sensitivity along with target glucose into the app settings. Based on that data, the software helps to calculate the insulin dose needed and alerts users to insulin on board to prevent stacking (which can help reduce hypoglycemia.)
People can use Inpen in combination with CGM or traditional glucose monitoring and reports can be shared with providers and caretakers
Here is what InPen users can track on the app dashboard:
- Active insulin
- Insulin dose reminders
- Personalized insulin dose based on current blood glucose, carbs to be consumed, and insulin on board.
- Automatically logs insulin dose delivered
- Syncs with CGM and glucose meter.
The InPen requires a prescription and is covered by many insurance companies in the United States. Most InPen users pay a $35 copay. Companion Medical has a co-pay assistance program for people without insurance coverage – more info here.
As a Diabetes Specialist, I am excited to share information on these new and emerging options to deliver insulin therapy that reduce the burden of diabetes self-management and improve connections to caregivers and providers.
Thanks for reading our Tech Thursday Blog! More info on InPen Here .
Cardiovascular Disease & Diabetes Standards 2020
Join Live Stream August 5th at 11:30 am (PST)
1.5 CEs | $29.00 or No CEs | Free
Perfect for those planning to take the CDCES or BC-ADM or for those seeking an update.
Diabetes Specialists have a critical role in advocating for CV reduction. Coach Beverly is extending a special invitation to join this webinar on the latest standards for CV reduction.
This webinar addresses:
- insulin resistance syndrome and vascular complications.
- impact of vessel disease from the heart to the toes.
- prevention of vascular disease
- strategies to achieve goals of care.
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[yikes-mailchimp form=”1″]Accreditation: Diabetes Education Services is an approved provider by the California Board of Registered Nursing, Provider 12640, and Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR), Provider DI002. Since these programs are approved by the CDR it satisfies the CE requirements for the CDCES regardless of your profession.*
The use of DES products does not guarantee the successful passage of the CDCES exam. CBDCE does not endorse any preparatory or review materials for the CDCES exam, except for those published by CBDCE.
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