Monday, August 17, 2015

Type No Type

(C) Diabetes Ramblings
There are times in diabetes advocacy that it feels like we're fighting ourselves. "That's the other kind of diabetes" should not ever come between us and diabetes advocacy.

During last month's MasterLab, I heard several times the sentiment that we need to put the "types" aside and focus on *everyone* with diabetes.

We need to take that energy that is wasted in arguing amongst ourselves and channel it in helpful ways. 

We need to work together for better access to the treatment and supplies each of us needs to manage our diabetes. Even people with the same type have different needs. I may only need a glucose meter at this time, but my mom needs a meter and medication. We both have Type 2, but our needs are different. 

Even if we get the tools we need, like a glucose meter, we may not receive necessary supplies to go with it. Giving someone only one test strip per day does not give him/her the ability to adequately use that meter for diabetes management. 

When my doctor prescribes what I need to manage my diabetes, the insurance company shouldn't be asking what type I am. They only need to know that I have diabetes and this is what I need to manage my disease. Why shouldn't a Type 2 diet and exercise controlled elementary school teacher who can't stop to test while teaching six and seven year old children receive a CGM (continuous glucose monitor)?

Since each person's diabetes management is unique, it really doesn't matter what type the person is when determining what is needed for successful diabetes management. Let's look at the person and the needs, not the type. This is not a one size fits all disease. Not for diet, not for test strips, not for medication. 

To borrow from a made for TV movie, "We're all in this together!"

Thank you to Mike at My Diabetic Heart for designing this No Type image and Lizmari at The Angry Type 2 Diabetic for artistic input.

1 comment:

  1. Well said!!! Even Medicare should cover CGMs for people over 65 regardless of type.

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