Diabetes Supplies: Why Where You Buy Matters 

For many people living with diabetes, running out of supplies is a constant worry. They may know that they only have enough supplies to last them a certain number of days or they may feel the need to build up a stockpile for an emergency. Whatever the motivation, the fear of running out can lead folks to source supplies from non-traditional channels – and that’s a bad idea.  

Here’s a breakdown.  

Understanding Non-Traditional Diabetes Supplies Channels 

According to our recent insulin pump survey, nearly 40 percent of people who use insulin pumps say they look to non-traditional channels for extra supplies because they are afraid of running out. Non-traditional sources include social media marketplaces, online community groups or message boards, family and friends, and even small-time “entrepreneurs” running late-night television ads.  

None of these non-traditional sources are licensed medical suppliers or regulated pharmacies and therefore are not recommended for obtaining supplies. 

While these options can feel convenient in the moment, especially during an emergency, they can come with serious risks. 

Why Buying Supplies This Way Can Be Risky 

Diabetes supplies are medical products. How they are handled, stored, and shipped matters. Supplies from non-traditional channels could be expired.  Expired sensors, insulin pump supplies, or test strips may not work correctly and can lead to inaccurate readings or device failures.  

Supplies sourced from non-traditional channels may have been stored incorrectly. Some supplies must be kept at specific temperatures or protected from light and moisture. When supplies are resold or shared, there is no way to know the conditions in which they were stored, how long they sat unused, or if packaging was compromised. 

Non-traditionally sourced supplies have no quality or safety guarantees. These sellers are not regulated. If something goes wrong, there is usually no customer support, no replacement, and no accountability. 

Supplies sourced non-traditionally can put your health at risk. Using faulty or compromised supplies can affect blood sugar control and overall safety. What feels like a short-term fix can create long-term problems. 

Why People Turn to Non-Traditionally Channels in the First Place 

It is important to note that, most of the time, people living with diabetes who are acquiring supplies from non-traditional sources are doing it because they are worried about running out of pump or CGM supplies.  
 
Issues such as insurance delays, paperwork issues, shipping slowdowns, and difficulty getting refills approved can all add stress and urgency to an already demanding situation. These concerns are real and understandable – and here at CCS we do everything in our power to mitigate them – but relying on risky sources is not the safest solution. 

Using Trusted Medical Supply Providers 

Working with licensed, established suppliers can help reduce the fear of running out while keeping safety front and center. 

At CCS, we offer home delivery for many diabetes supplies and help with insurance verification and reordering. Having a trusted supplier can make it easier to plan ahead and avoid last-minute gaps that push people toward risky options. 

How to Protect (and Prep) Yourself When Getting Supplies 

Here’s a handy checklist:  

• Order refills early whenever possible 

• Keep track of how long your supplies usually last 

• If your supplies fail or do not last until the intended time, contact the manufacturer for replacements immediately, even if you have extras on hand. 

• Make a note or reminder in your calendar with “order by” dates  

• Ask your provider or supplier about auto-refill or reminder options 

• Talk with your care team if you are having trouble getting supplies on time 

• Use licensed pharmacies or medical supply companies you can verify 

Reliable Supplies Support Reliable Care 

Accurate readings and dependable devices start with safe, properly handled supplies. While non-traditional sources may feel convenient, they can carry real risks. Choosing trusted suppliers helps support consistent care and long-term health. 

Author: Bernice Boivin, RD, CDCES | CCS Health       

This site is for educational purposes only. Talk to your doctor or healthcare provider before making any decisions about your health.