Mail Order vs Local Pharmacy: Getting Your CGM Supplies

This article provides general information about CGM supply options, including insights into mail order vs pharmacy CGM, and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider about your specific needs.

Deciding between mail order and local pharmacy pickup for your CGM (Continuous Glucose Monitor) supplies can feel overwhelming. As a Medicare beneficiary, you have options for getting your CGM supplies, and we’ll help you understand the pros and cons of mail order vs pharmacy CGM delivery methods.

Understanding Your CGM Supply Options

There are two main ways to get your CGM supplies:

• Mail order services that deliver directly to your home
• Local pharmacy pickup at stores like CVS, Walgreens, or your neighborhood drugstore

Both options are typically covered by Medicare Part B when prescribed by your doctor for diabetes management.

Mail Order CGM Benefits for Seniors

Many seniors find mail order services particularly convenient. Here’s why:

• Supplies delivered right to your door – no driving needed
• Auto-refill programs so you don’t forget to reorder
• Often lower copays than retail pharmacy prices
• Customer service specialists familiar with Medicare coverage

💡 Pro Tip: Most mail order services will call or text when it’s time to refill, helping you stay on track with supplies.

Local Pharmacy CGM Advantages

Your neighborhood pharmacy offers unique benefits:

• Face-to-face help from pharmacists you know
• Immediate pickup when you need supplies quickly
• Easier returns if there’s a problem
• Local support for Medicare billing questions

Comparing Costs: Mail Order vs Pharmacy CGM

As of 2025, Medicare Part B covers 80% of approved CGM supplies when deemed medically necessary. You’re responsible for the remaining 20% after meeting your deductible.

Cost differences to consider:

• Mail order services often offer bulk discounts
• Some pharmacies match mail order prices
• Medicare Advantage plans may have preferred suppliers
• Shipping costs (if any) for mail order

Real Senior Experiences

Mail Order Success Story

Helen, 74, from Arizona: “I switched to mail order for my FreeStyle Libre supplies last year. My monthly cost dropped from $65 to $48, and they arrive like clockwork. During the summer heat, I don’t have to leave my house!”

Helen’s mail order pros:

• Saves $17/month ($204/year)
• No driving in extreme weather
• Automatic refills never miss
• 24/7 customer service

Helen’s mail order cons:

• 3-day wait for first order
• Couldn’t inspect supplies before accepting
• Had to call to change delivery address for vacation

Pharmacy Pickup Success Story

George, 69, from Michigan: “I stick with my local Walgreens. My pharmacist, Susan, knows my whole medical history and caught a potential drug interaction last month. That personal touch is worth everything.”

George’s pharmacy pros:

• Same-day pickup available
• Pharmacist knows his medical history
• Can combine trips for all medications
• Easy to return defective supplies

George’s pharmacy cons:

• Slightly higher monthly cost
• Must remember to reorder
• Limited by pharmacy hours
• Winter driving can be challenging

Detailed Cost Breakdown

Typical Mail Order Costs (Monthly)

• FreeStyle Libre sensors (2): $280 retail
• Medicare covers (80%): -$224
• Your cost: $56
• With supplement: $0-$10

Typical Pharmacy Costs (Monthly)

• FreeStyle Libre sensors (2): $320 retail
• Medicare covers (80%): -$256
• Your cost: $64
• With supplement: $0-$12

Annual difference: $96-144 more at pharmacy

Making the Right Choice for You

Choose Mail Order If You:

✓ Value convenience over personal service
✓ Have reliable mail delivery
✓ Want the lowest possible costs
✓ Struggle with transportation
✓ Prefer automated systems
✓ Live far from pharmacies

Choose Pharmacy Pickup If You:

✓ Want immediate access to supplies
✓ Value face-to-face relationships
✓ Have complex medical needs
✓ Prefer inspecting supplies before accepting
✓ Often need emergency replacements
✓ Enjoy combining errands

Step-by-Step Setup Guide

Setting Up Mail Order

1. Get your prescription

   • Ask doctor to send to mail order pharmacy
   • Include diagnosis codes for Medicare

2. Choose a mail order service

   • Verify Medicare participation
   • Check if they carry your CGM brand
   • Ask about auto-refill programs

3. Complete enrollment

   • Provide Medicare information
   • Set up payment method
   • Choose delivery preferences

4. First order

   • Allow 5-7 business days
   • Track shipment online
   • Set up auto-refills

Setting Up Pharmacy Pickup

1. Choose your pharmacy

   • Confirm they’re Medicare-enrolled
   • Verify they stock your CGM brand
   • Ask about special ordering

2. Transfer prescription

   • Have doctor send directly
   • Or transfer from current pharmacy
   • Confirm insurance processing

3. First pickup

   • Bring Medicare card
   • Verify copay amount
   • Ask about refill reminders

Common Challenges and Solutions

Mail Order Challenges

“My supplies arrived damaged”

• Solution: Report immediately for replacement
• Most companies offer overnight replacement
• Document with photos

“I’m traveling when supplies arrive”

• Solution: Use vacation hold services
• Ship to temporary address
• Plan deliveries around travel

Pharmacy Challenges

“My pharmacy is often out of stock”

• Solution: Call ahead before each pickup
• Ask about automatic ordering
• Find backup pharmacy

“I can’t drive anymore”

• Solution: Many pharmacies offer delivery
• Ask family/friends for help
• Consider switching to mail order

Special Considerations for CGM Supplies

Temperature Sensitivity

• Mail order uses climate-controlled shipping
• Pharmacies store at proper temperatures
• Both options protect supply integrity

Emergency Needs

• Pharmacies offer same-day solutions
• Mail order may have expedited shipping
• Keep backup supplies regardless

Medicare Coverage Tips

For Both Options:

• Ensure supplier is Medicare-enrolled
• Keep prescriptions current
• Meet face-to-face visit requirements
• Document medical necessity

Maximizing Savings:

• Compare total annual costs
• Check for manufacturer discounts
• Use Medicare Advantage benefits
• Consider supplemental insurance

The Hybrid Approach

Many seniors use both methods:

Regular supplies: Mail order for convenience and savings
Emergency needs: Local pharmacy for quick access
New prescriptions: Pharmacy for immediate start
Established routine: Mail order for simplicity

Technology Considerations

Mail Order Tech Requirements:

• Basic internet for account access
• Email for order confirmations
• Phone for customer service
• Mobile app (optional)

Pharmacy Tech Requirements:

• Phone to check availability
• Transportation to location
• Basic app use (optional)

Making Your Decision

Consider these factors:

1. Your lifestyle

   • Travel frequency
   • Technology comfort
   • Transportation access

2. Your health needs

   • Medication complexity
   • Emergency supply needs
   • Other health conditions

3. Your preferences

   • Personal service importance
   • Cost sensitivity
   • Convenience priority

Red Flags to Avoid

With Any Supplier:

• Not Medicare-enrolled
• Unusually low prices
• Pressure to order extras
• Poor customer reviews
• No clear return policy

Your Next Steps

1. This week: List pros/cons for your situation
2. Next week: Research specific suppliers
3. Within month: Make your choice and set up service

Final Thoughts

There’s no “wrong” choice between mail order vs pharmacy CGM supplies. The best option is the one that:

• Fits your lifestyle
• Meets your budget
• Provides reliable access
• Gives you peace of mind

Remember, you can always switch if your first choice doesn’t work out. Your health and convenience come first. To Learn more about Medicare coverage of CGM Read on!

Need Help Choosing Your CGM Supplier?

Our specialists can explain your mail order and pharmacy options, helping you make the best choice for your needs.

Call Now: 727-831-3729

Free consultation about Medicare CGM coverage and supply options