Looking for insulin pump users in China

Posted by MASCUCHT (474 days ago)

I will be living in Shanghai for 2 years. I wondered if there were any other people with insulin dependent diabetes, in particular insulin pump users, whom I might speak with in regards to best ways to get pump/insulin supplies while abroad and if anyone knows of a good endocrinologist in Shanghai.

I am American. Have traveled pretty extensively but never lived abroad while on a pump.

(I am based in Shanghai)

Find what you are after in our Guangzhou A-Z Directory

Posted by Xpatwife (468 days ago)

I am currently living in Dubai and moving to Hong Kong. Have been pumping for 7yrs. and have lived abroad all that time. I am an American as well. I bring all my pump supplies with me when I return from summer break. Which pump do you use? If you will look on their website they might have a country rep for China. This might be the easiest way to find an endo. Good luck and enjoy!

(I am based in Hong Kong)

Posted by MASCUCHT (467 days ago)

I am so glad to hear that there are Expats with pumps. I use a Paradigm and been on four years now. A bit nervous about being a first time Expat with my health, albeit good health. When you purchase the year supply, do you encounter any problems with insurance reimbursement for the purchase? Great idea on the rep contact for I've learned of a Medtronics distributer in Shanghai. Thanks so much.

(I am based in Shanghai)

Posted by Xpatwife (467 days ago)

Beautiful! If there is a distributor in Shanghai then you are in great shape. They will carry your supplies and you can purchase from them. Bear in mind that they will be more costly. Also, this means there is an endo in Shanghai that has pump training, along with him/her will be a nurse that is qualified as well. You're set!
As for insurance...oh the headache. First, your coverage will change (I think) when you move abroad. I have been covered with Cigna in the States and Cigna International for the past 7 years. I have never had a problem with reimbursment. Why don't you call Minimed and inform them about what is happening, they will help you put this all together, you might need a letter from your doc as well. It will be a little leg work, but it can be done. If they say no, then fight!
Are you going to teach? Just guessing.

(I am based in Hong Kong)

Posted by MASCUCHT (466 days ago)

Your response makes me so much less worrisome.
Not teaching though my husband plans to continue in his teaching. Working as Director of R&D for McCormick (the spice and herb/flavor company).
I will be first visiting Shanghai in June so will try to establish rep contacts then. Last HgA1C was 7.6 and I need to get basals etc in order before the big move. A pain but living on a pump atleast gives metabolic flexibility no?
Also wish to ask if you use Skype to communicate back to the States and is that the best way to keep in touch? Thanks so much for writing. Would it be better to email directly vs this site which appears fairly public?

(I am based in Shanghai)

Posted by Xpatwife (463 days ago)

I will send you a PM

(I am based in Hong Kong)

Posted by MASCUCHT (460 days ago)

Dear Xpatwife,

Did not get a PM from you and hope all is well. What is a PM? Thanks

(I am based in Shanghai)

Posted by Xpatwife (460 days ago)

It is a personal message. He is how to get it:

Top left of this page - see announcements? - click on control panel. Follow the directions and you can read the message I sent you. It is a way to communicate personally rather than with the entire board.

Hope to hear from you soon. :)

(I am based in Hong Kong)