Mail Order vs Local Pharmacy: Getting Your CGM Supplies
This article provides general information about medical equipment suppliers, including considerations about local DME vs mail order options, and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider about your specific needs.
When it comes to getting your diabetes supplies through Medicare, you have an important choice to make between local DME (Durable Medical Equipment) suppliers and mail-order companies. This decision can significantly impact how you receive and manage your diabetes care supplies, so let’s explore the pros and cons of local DME vs mail order options to help you make the best choice for your needs.
Understanding Local DME Suppliers vs Mail Order Companies
Local DME suppliers are medical equipment providers in your community that maintain physical store locations. Mail-order companies, on the other hand, ship supplies directly to your home from centralized warehouses.
Key Differences at a Glance:
- Local DME: Face-to-face service, immediate pickup, personal relationship
- Mail Order: Convenient delivery, often lower prices, automated reordering
Advantages of Local DME Suppliers
Working with a local DME supplier offers several important benefits:
- Personal assistance with equipment setup and training
- Immediate access to supplies when needed
- Face-to-face problem resolution
- Support for Medicare paperwork
- Building relationships with knowledgeable staff
Many local DME suppliers offer home delivery services within their service area, combining the benefits of personal service with delivery convenience.
Benefits of Mail Order Services
- Often lower prices due to bulk purchasing
- Convenient home delivery
- Automatic reordering systems
- 24/7 customer service availability
- Larger inventory selection
Real-World Comparison: Local DME vs Mail Order
Sarah’s Experience with Local DME
Sarah, 68, from Ohio: “I love my local DME supplier. When my CGM sensor failed on a Friday afternoon, they had a replacement ready in 30 minutes. The staff knows me by name and always asks about my grandkids.”
Pros of Sarah’s choice:
- Emergency supplies available same day
- Personal relationships with staff
- Hands-on training for new devices
- Face-to-face Medicare help
Cons Sarah encountered:
- Limited hours (closed Sundays)
- Slightly higher prices
- Need transportation to store
- Smaller product selection
Robert’s Mail Order Experience
Robert, 72, from Florida: “Mail order works perfectly for me. My supplies arrive like clockwork every month, and I never have to leave home. Plus, I save about $10-15 monthly.”
Pros of Robert’s choice:
- Automatic monthly deliveries
- Lower prices (saved $120/year)
- No driving required
- Online account management
Cons Robert faced:
- 3-day wait for emergency supplies
- Phone-only customer service
- No hands-on device training
- Shipping delays during holidays
Cost Considerations
As of 2025, Medicare Part B covers 80% of approved costs for diabetes supplies from both local DME and mail-order suppliers, provided they’re Medicare-enrolled.
Price Comparison Example (Monthly CGM Supplies):
Local DME Typical Costs:
- Medicare covers: $240 (80%)
- Your cost: $60 (20%)
- With supplement: $0-10
Mail Order Typical Costs:
- Medicare covers: $200 (80%)
- Your cost: $50 (20%)
- With supplement: $0-10
Annual difference: $120-240 in favor of mail order
Making Your Decision: Key Factors to Consider
Choose Local DME If You:
- Value personal relationships
- Need immediate access to supplies
- Prefer face-to-face assistance
- Have transportation available
- Want hands-on training
- Experience frequent supply issues
Choose Mail Order If You:
- Prioritize convenience
- Have reliable mail service
- Are comfortable with technology
- Want lowest prices
- Prefer automated reordering
- Plan ahead for supplies
The Hybrid Approach: Best of Both Worlds
Many seniors successfully use both services:
Margaret, 70: “I get my regular monthly supplies through mail order to save money, but I keep a relationship with my local DME for emergencies and when I
References
need help.”
How to Set Up a Hybrid System:
- Register with a mail-order company for regular supplies
- Establish a relationship with a local DME
- Use mail order for predictable monthly needs
- Turn to local DME for emergencies or training
Questions to Ask Potential Suppliers
For Any Supplier:
- “Are you Medicare-enrolled?”
- “What CGM brands do you carry?”
- “How do you handle prior authorizations?”
- “What happens if I need emergency supplies?”
- “Do you accept my supplemental insurance?”
Additional Questions for Local DME:
- “What are your hours?”
- “Do you offer delivery?”
- “Can you help with device training?”
- “Do you price-match?”
Additional Questions for Mail Order:
- “What’s your standard shipping time?”
- “How do I handle returns?”
- “Is expedited shipping available?”
- “How does auto-reorder work?”
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
With Local DME:
- Not verifying Medicare enrollment
- Assuming all locations carry your brand
- Not asking about delivery options
- Forgetting to compare prices
With Mail Order:
- Not planning for shipping delays
- Ignoring fine print on returns
- Not updating delivery addresses
- Missing reorder notifications
Special Considerations for Seniors
Technology Comfort
Local DME might be better if you:
- Prefer paper forms
- Don’t use computers regularly
- Want in-person help
Mail order works well if you:
- Use online banking
- Check email daily
- Comfortable with apps
Geographic Factors
Rural seniors: Mail order often provides better access Urban seniors: More local DME options available Seasonal residents: Mail order can ship to multiple addresses
Making the Switch
If you decide to change suppliers:
- Don’t cancel current supplier until new one is confirmed
- Transfer prescriptions properly
- Verify insurance coverage with new supplier
- Order supplies before you run out
- Keep records of the transition
Emergency Preparedness
Regardless of your choice:
- Keep 2-week emergency supply
- Know your backup options
- Have supplier contact info handy
- Understand expedited shipping policies
- Maintain current prescriptions
The Bottom Line
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to local DME vs mail order. Consider:
- Your lifestyle and preferences
- Geographic location
- Technology comfort level
- Budget priorities
- Health stability
Many seniors find that a combination approach works best, using mail order for regular supplies and local DME for special needs.
Take Action Today
- List your priorities (cost, convenience, service)
- Research options in your area
- Compare prices for your specific supplies
- Ask questions before committing
- Start with a trial if unsure
Remember: You can always change your mind if your first choice doesn’t work out.
Need Help Choosing Your Supplier?
Our specialists can help you compare local DME vs mail order options and find the best solution for your needs.
Call Now: 727-831-3729
We’ll help you understand your options and make the choice that’s right for you.
