At Tidepool, our hearts go out to everyone impacted by Hurricane Helene, the current wildfires in California, and any other variation of natural disasters affecting our community. We understand that managing diabetes during a disaster can feel overwhelming. To help, we’ve compiled a list of resources from diabetes tech companies, insulin manufacturers, organizations, and community groups. These resources provide emergency supplies, preparedness tips, and support to ensure you have everything you need during this challenging time.
Diabetes Tech Companies
Tandem Diabetes
- What it provides: A packing list for emergency evacuation and support for emergency supplies.
- Contact: DisasterAssistance@TandemDiabetes.com
- Resource link: Packing List for Emergency Evacuation
Insulet (Omnipod)
- What it provides: Assistance with emergency Omnipod supplies for customers.
- Contact: Customer Care at 1-800-591-3455, option #2.
Medtronic
- What it provides: A packing list for emergency evacuation and contact support for emergency supplies.
- Contact: 1-800-MiniMed (1-800-646-4633), ext. 2.
- Resource link: Packing List for Emergency Evacuation
Abbott
- What it provides: Tips on creating a Diabetes Emergency Kit
- Ensure you have at least a week's worth of diabetes supplies, including:
- Medications
- An extra continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) sensor
- If you use a smartphone app, an extra power source
- Extra batteries for any tools that require them
- A blood glucose meter and testing strips
- Lancets
- Extra alcohol wipes
- Snacks and/or glucose tablets or gel
- Store these items in an easy-to-identify bag or container and keep it in a location that is easily accessible in an emergency.
- Prepare Important Documents and Contacts
- Create a list of all your emergency contacts and store it in a plastic bag. This list should include contact information for your healthcare provider, pharmacy, and personal emergency contacts. Additionally, include a copy of your insurance information and a list of all your medications and dosages.
- It’s important to note that glucose levels can be affected when your body is under stress. You may consider following a stress or sick day plan, if you have one in place with your doctor. You can also consider requesting your next diabetes supply refill early in case pharmacies are affected in your area.
- Contact: Abbott customer support 1-855-632-8658
Dexcom
- What it provides: Assistance with emergency Dexcom supplies for customers
- Contact: Dexcom Technical Support at 844-607-8398
Insulin Manufacturers
Novo Nordisk
- What it provides: If you have an immediate need, Novo Nordisk may be able to help with a one-time offer for a free, short-term supply of insulin.
- Resource link: Novo Nordisk Emergency Insulin Supply
Eli Lilly
- What it provides: Disaster relief support for insulin access.
- Contact: The Lilly Answers Center at 1-800-Lilly-Rx (1-800-545-5979)
- Resource link: Eli Lilly Disaster Relief Resources
Diabetes Organizations
Diabetes Disaster Response Coalition (DDRC)
- What it provides: Resources for disaster planning, including a Diabetes Disaster Preparedness Plan, tools and tips to help manage diabetes during a disaster. The DDRC also operates a disaster hotline for support.
- Resource link: DDRC Website
American Diabetes Association (ADA)
- What it provides: Emergency preparedness resources, including tips for finding shelters, storing insulin safely, locating open pharmacies, and understanding your rights in emergency shelters.
- Contact: 1-800-DIABETES (1-800-342-2383)
- Resource link: ADA Disaster Relief Resources
Breakthrough T1D
Community Resources
You’re Just My Type 1
Mutual Aid Diabetes
Camp Conrad Chinnock
- What it provides: Emergency diabetes supplies, including insulin, glucose tablets, syringes, and glucagon.
- Contact: info@diabetescamping.org
- Resource link: Camp Conrad Chinnock Resources
Healthcare Providers
Eddii Health
- What it provides: Availability for urgent virtual adult and pediatric endocrinology visits as early as Saturday, January 11, 2025
- Contact: Book an appointment here or DM @eddii_health on Instagram for questions or help
We’re Here for You
We know how difficult it is to manage diabetes during a disaster, but you are not alone. These resources are here to provide support and ensure you have access to the supplies and information you need. If you or someone you know could benefit from this list, please share it widely. Together, we can help the diabetes community through this challenging time.
Stay safe,
The Tidepool Team
