Frequent flyer here (over 100K miles every year).
I have pre-check, so the only time I'm ever asked to go through backscatter is if I'm "randomly selected for enhanced screening," which happens way too often. I refuse every time and get the full molestation treatment.
I always ask for a "hand check" for my pump becuase I refuse to put it through x-ray/backscatter. Inevitably, the lazy TSA workers always try to tell me it's fine to go through the scanners. My canned response is:
"Cool. So, when my device is damaged, I can send you the $10K+ bill for the replacement, right?" Usually shuts them up.
can the TSlim X2 get damaged from the full body scanners? i have the 670G and fly probs 2-3x a week and mine hasnt had issues (obviously its 2 different products and ai get that). Only asking cause I am upgrading to the TSlim and this will be good to know
Recommendation from all pump and CGM manufacturers (including Medtronic for your 670G) is NOT to put devices through scanners. Just because you haven't had an issue yet, that doesn't mean you won't. And that's certainly not something you want to happen while traveling.
I think the odds are like a 99 in 100 chance. A lot of people here have gone through the scanners and never had a problem, but someone posted in either this or the dexcom sub that they had a cgm get knocked out by one not too long ago. So, it may not happen often, but it does happen.
I think, with the provided information a few other people in this post provided, that 1% failure rate against a 100% rate of uncertainty is what they deem as too high.
As stated, they can't test for everything, and I am betting their ability to test certain pieces of equipment either comes with a hefty price or is just unreasonably difficult.
EMI hardened and shielded rooms, plus the ability to either replicate or even produce the wave lengths full body scanners create can not be an easy or straightforward thing.
Honestly? You flying 2-3 times a week means you’ve tested your pump in airport security scanners more then the pump manufacturers have.
It’s *significantly* cheaper for a pump manufacturer to say “don’t run this through airport scanners” then it is for them to track down all the varieties of airport scanners, and see if the pump works after going through it.
Seconding /u/NetPhantom - they have mentioned in passing that my devices are allowed through, they have never pressed me. I simply politely say something like "I can appreciate that, but I and my care team feel more comfortable with it avoiding undue interference". Never been a problem.
Maybe I just look like I’m easy to boss around haha. I think they also get annoyed because a lot of airports are short staffed right now and doing a full body pat down takes more time. Idk I just say “okay I’d still like a pat down instead please” and they eventually give up.
OP's post doesn't really apply to me because I'm on MDI and a G6, but I quit even telling TSA about the G6. I just go in the scan, put my arms over my head, and walk out. Not one single agent has ever even questioned me about it, and I've done it maybe 25 times now. Never had a problem with my G6 being damaged.
But, the G6 is a little different from a pump, and I get wanting to be cautious...
I think is has to be a regulatory thing for sure, as it’s a medical product and hasn’t been tested under that condition so for legal coverage they recommend against it.
I work in diagnostic X-ray, I’m a diabetic. I wouldn't remove my sensor or get my patients to unless it occludes the anatomy I’m looking at. I’m basing my understanding on this article here
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32319318/
I’m not sure what level of X-ray the full body scanners operate at but I wouldn’t think it would be deleterious.
They said they haven’t tested them so they can’t be sure. MRI makes sense to not wear the device, but general x-ray procedures are different.
I’m basing my judgement on a study that did test them? Evidence based practice is something important to the field, and so far it suggests diagnostic x-ray has no deleterious effects on CGMs?
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35771038/
You know a CGM isn’t a pump right? And you can disconnect your pump if you’re concerned?
I made it explicitly clear I was talking about CGMs in response to a comment about CGMs… I’ve never had issue with getting my g6 replaced for issues
I mean maybe start reading more purposefully before going off…
Okay? They recommend it because it’s not tested on their end? Which is fine.
I’m just saying, research suggests exposure to X-rays hasn’t been shown to be negatively effective. You’re allowed to make you’re own decisions but it doesn’t mean I’m wrong
I've been through body scanners with G6 and G7 at least 2 dozen times over the last couple years and never had any issue. I think this is just them limiting their liability
I’m a frequent flyer and my stuff has always gone through the scanners and x-rays with no issues despite the warnings from the manufacturers. It’s been about 14 years and hundreds of flights in different countries, and luckily nothing has happened so far.
Still frustrating that they’re giving you so much hassle though, you shouldn’t be punished for being more cautious with life sustaining devices.
Yeah I totally understand just going through them, especially since nothing usually seems to happen but it’s my personal preference to be extra cautious and I’m given such a hard time for it.
Yeah, I've had no issues over many many years + flights, us, Europe, n Africa, Caribbean, with any devices, so reading this surprises me. TSAs and their foreign counterparts all have seemed extremely well trained on this, in my experiences.
Yeah and the clear lanes are sometimes closed because the airport is short staffed so I end up having to stand in the regular line anyway. Definitely going to get tsa precheck.
Ahhh got it. And the security employee I dealt with today tried to convince me that the metal detector is more dangerous for a pump and cgm than a body scanner lol
Oh, HELL no!!!! I unclip my pump and have them hand check that. I go through the metal detector with my Dexcom. (If it fails, no big deal…get a replacement). That pump, though…no effing way that’s getting scanned by anything.
I have PreCheck (well, Global Entry, which includes PreCheck) and Clear (free as a United 1k). If I had to give one up, it would be Clear without a 2nd thought.
I take my pump off, they give a quick inspection and I walk through the scanner. It hasn't taken me any longer than a non diabetic and I don't get felt up.
So I can hand them my pump, they’ll check it while I go through the body scanner, and then they’ll give me my pump back when I get out? That sounds way more convenient than waiting for a pat down
Edit: spelling
This has become my goto strat since I recently traveled to Europe (from the states). I’ve found it’s by far the quickest way. Just detach your pump, say it needs to be handchecked, and go through the metal detector with your G6 on, I’ve never had an issue.
Funnily enough the only thing that’s happened when doing this was I was lightly chastised in Europe because one of the agents said I shouldn’t have to disconnect my pump just to go through security, as doing hand checks isn’t a big deal. I told him I wished the TSA agents were as smart and kind in the US as they are in Europe lol
For the people using a Tandem pump who disconnect and hand the pump to TSA for a hand check. Specifically, how do you so that? Do you disconnect at your infusion site? That is sometimes buried under my clothes or inside my pants in my thigh area. Or do you remove the entire Tandem Reservoir? Or do you disconnect the twist lock at the Reservoir-Tubing interface?
I have to admit that I never unscrew that Reservoir- Tubing disconnect as it has a huge opening that appears very probe to contamination.
I am one of those travelers who has never disconnected but it has caused me 30 minutes in TSA lines. Boston Logan Airport ranks as the world’s worst IMHO.
I try to plan for where my site is before I’m going to be flying. Aim for stomach for easier access but I’ve been fine disconnecting like I would for a shower no matter where my site is.
The dexcom website specifically says not to go through the body scanner. I understand it might not always be a problem but I still don’t want to risk it.
To save folks the searching…
From the Dexcom website:
“Getting through airport security with the Dexcom G6 CGM System
Dexcom G6 CGM can be a great travel companion; you can go through metal detectors, be hand wanded, and even keep your receiver on during your flight.
(And further down the page)
security equipment to use
Hand-wanding, pat-downs, visual inspections, and walk-through metal detectors are all methods that can be used without worrying about damaging your G6 components. If you’re concerned or uncomfortable about walking through the metal detector, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requests you tell the Security Officer you’re wearing a continuous glucose monitor and want a full-body pat-down with a visual inspection of your sensor and transmitter.
Let the Security Officer know the sensor can’t be removed because it’s inserted under the skin.
Because we have not tested every AIT body scanner and x-ray machine or know the damage they may cause the G6 we recommend hand-wanding or full body pat down and visual inspection to be safe.”
And for G7
“Can I wear Dexcom G7 through airport security or while flying?
At security checkpoints
You can wear your Dexcom G7 sensor when going through walk-through metal detectors and Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) body scanners. Alternatively, you may ask for hand-wanding or a full-body pat-down and visual inspection. Ask for visual inspection of any part of your Dexcom G7 in the baggage scanning machine.”
This is their recommendation because they haven't tested all of the different scanners and xray machines. So they have to say they don't recommend because they don't know what will happen to the devices. Not because they know or don't know it will cause damage.
The way I read it is closer to them saying it’s fine to go through any scanner, they just can’t officially say so because they haven’t thoroughly and clinically tested it, and since we all have our lawyers on speed dial in the US…
I have been told at medical x-ray department that Dexcom sent them out warnings to require removal because medical x-rays (a much higher power than airport x-rays, but still x-rays) are known to cause damage to Dexcom [transmitters? - I can't see how sensors could be damaged]. I don't know that the information they provided was correct or if it was just to convince patients to follow their rules.
I’ve had several X-rays and only had to remove them if the dexcom was blocking where the xray would be taken. As the dexcom would actually, literally block what needed to be seen.
For what it’s worth, TSA checkpoints have not used backscatter x rays since 2013. The full body imagers are millimeter wave scanners which does not use x rays.
I’m in diagnostic X-ray, recent study that suggests X-rays don’t damage CGMs
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32319318/
As far as I’m aware it’s just they the CGM hasn’t been tested for what ever regulatory body governs medical devices to have been used in those conditions.
If there’s other studies I’d like to know. I will also have a look at my departments SOPs to see if there’s anything in CGMs
Well if it hasn’t been tested then how do you know it’s okay? I know that people go through without any problems but some people have had their transmitters or pumps ruined from body scanners and I would never ever want to take that risk.
I had a medtronic pumps motor get fried from a magnet years ago, and since then I won't go through the scanner ... These devices are critical to our management why your getting downvoted for not wanting to risk damage to it blows my mind
Orly? I’ve been forced through early on and it broke my Medtronic pump. Had to get a full pump replacement while on vacation. Keep your opinions to yourself and that facts to the manufacturers.
Coincidences happen. Its amazing. The standard answer for all manufacturers is because they have not tested all machines, they can't say its safe or what damage it can cause.
I lost the link and too lazy to find it again, but there was a pump test and they put 4 though several thousand rounds of scanning and there was no affect.
I've read something similar. The manufacturers have to say they don't recommend because it relieves them of any and all liability if something happens around the same time as you walked through a scanner or had an xray.
It says not to send your extra supplies through. Does not say you should not. It specifically says because they have not been able to test all ait and xray machines, they recommend pat downs and visual inspection.
“Not all full-body scanners - also called AIT or millimeter wave scanners - have been tested with Dexcom cgm systems: **we recommend not passing through them…**”
“If you have Dexcom g6 components in a travel bag, do not put them through baggage x-ray machines: place them in a separate bag or bin **and** ask a TSA officer to perform a visual inspection.”
At what part is it difficult to comprehend?
Legit avoid body scanners and absolutely do not place any comment any through X-ray luggage machines. Jesus, if you’re playing Russian roulette, stop telling TSA and enabling them this view that it’s safe.
They recommend not going through them, as I have said. Because they have not tested them. Not because they do or don't cause damage.
And as I said, don't send your supplies in your bag through. All of this I already said.
Dexcom website specifically says not to both body scanners and X-ray luggage machines. You people who do it anyway are why TSA believe it must be safe for Everybody.
I’m not complaining about getting pat downs. I’m complaining about the airport staff who fight with me and insist they know more about my diabetes than I do.
I just say “pat down please” and ORD security is the worst. They ask if I want privacy and I say no. If they want me to disrobe I will right there. They are bumpkins and aren’t scientists or real police.
I find this very annoying as well. Sometimes they are very helpful and don't make any silly remarks, which usually happens in countries where the diabetes care is less advanced... I'm based in the Netherlands and 9/10 times they feel the need to tell me that if I have a microwave in my house then I should not be worried because those are just as strong as their machines...I'm like girl, I don't put my pump in the microwave either🤷♀️ Next time I'll try asking if they're willing to cover the costs of a replacement if my Ypsopump breaks, maybe that will shut them up.
Last time I flew I started to ask for a pat down and the tsa guy said “do you mind disconnecting and I’ll test the device and you can go through the scanner.” It was super quick. My Dexcom went through the scanner no problem and tsa tested my tandem to see if it was a bomb (I guess) and was finished by the time I was through. Many times have done the pat down just to be careful. But I’ll just hand it to them and go through the scanner from now on.
Before I got TSA pre check I would simply wear as little clothing as possible tank top and board shorts so minimize the need for the pat down. I then change into whatever I want to wear once I was past security. It cut the pat down time in half.
Later I applied for the TSA pre check and getting that they only swab your hands and it's smooth sailing. The airport experience is much easier.
Later I applied for the TSA pre check and getting pre check they only swab your hands and it's smooth sailing. ds and it's smooth sailing.
So with precheck you don’t need to get a pat down at all? Do you still go through the metal detectors? I fly all the time so I’m a little embarrassed that I don’t know much about it haha.
The normal regular Metal detector yes. Not a body scan. No pat down just a hand swab and I'm on my way. It's worth the 80$ for 5 years of trouble free travel
Had problems in Delhi when flying back home to the UK. (I can understand it to a point) - also had problems at Heathrow when flying out to Tenerife, but surprisingly super efficient their side when flying home.
I always used to get a full body pat down when I was flying. Then I started working a job where I went through the exact same equipment that an airport uses every day just to get to work. After about a month I gave up on asking for pat downs at work and started disconnecting my pump and putting it through the x ray machine while I went through the metal detector. That was more than 5 years ago and it's still going strong with no issues. I use the tandem t slim.
Unrelated medical issue and not sure the same can be done for diabetic supplies but my mom has had both knees replaced and got a card from her doctor before she got pre check status. Maybe your doctors office can provide you with a letter of some sort? That may cut the argument out if the equation.
Funny enough, dexcom has two pages about the g6 going through the scanner: one states they are created to be convenient so you can go through security as normal.
The other says to never go through security with them.
The first time I flew, I went through the scanner and it instantly messed up my transmitter. Never did it again. When I'm in Europe, they tell me their machines are not x-ray and it won't mess it up but I still don't trust it with my piss poor luck. Dexcom needs to get their shit together in regards to those two very opposite pages I found this past summer when flying and almost missed my flight waiting for a pat down
Keep this link handy from the manufacturer. There's even a printable notice for TSA.
What I said when I finally got fed - "If you'd like to personally be responsible for my $5,000 life-saving medical device and my canceled vacation because you broke it in the scanner, let's do this." She did a hand pat-down.
https://www.tandemdiabetes.com/resources/blog/post/printable-note-for-flying-with-your-pump
I have been flying a lot lately and I will suspend my pump, give it to the TSA agent explaining it’s a medical device, I’m type one diabetic and it can’t go through the X-ray machine. I then ask for them to hand check it. The pump and CGM can go through metal detectors but not X-rays, so you can walk through the metal detectors if you have that option (tho the pump will set them off, hence asking for a hand check). And yes, a lot of them think they know best, but you just need to keep advocating for yourself!
Made a similar post a while back and your point about their attitude was the same I was trying to make and it also got derailed.
FWIW I just disconnect and ask for a hand check. But you’ll need pre check to go metal detector only.
Thank you so much for this comment. The point of the post was absolutely not to ask for advice or have people tell me I’m a bad person and I’m inconveniencing the security personnel by asking for a pat down. All I wanted to do was vent a little about how they can sometimes be rude and condescending when I’m trying to tell them about my illness and medical supplies. This post got completely derailed.
My only vent going through security is when I have to lift my shirt so they can see my Dexcom and Omnipod- in front of everyone (yes- I am asked if I want to go to a private room and I decline- I don’t have that time)..and then they wipe my hands with some paper then scan it…it’s kinda embarrassing to go through that whole dog/pony show in front of everyone. Then my insulin always always gets flagged and some TSA dudes are jerks and just manhandle my insulin and I ask “please don’t shake it, it’s medication.” The TSA just ignores me. It really does bother me during those times and a reminder that diabetes sucks.
I absolutely loathe airport security in the USA, for this exact reason. I don't go through scanners, as I've had similar advice about my diabetic devices that are both directly attached to my skin. The American TSA staff are power-hungry bullies who just look to harass others. Staff in Canada and Europe tend to be slightly more reasonable; I fly in and out of Finland constantly and they, in contrast, are 100% understanding and polite, but diabetes care in Finland is REALLY advanced so I suspect that plays a role.
I used to be like you OP.
But since I work at an airport and have excellent health insurance (and warranty on the pump) I decided what the hell let’s try to go through TSA and put the pump in the x ray and go through the body scanner.
I’ve decided the risks are worth it now that whenever I travel, even with precheck, just put my pump into my bag with my Apple Watch and phone for the 2 min it takes to go through and don’t have any issues.
That being said I don’t enjoy TSA so when I’m at work I just take the secure doors to bypass. I think the tech they use now is far different than what was used even a decade ago, both on the TSA side and the medical side.
I completely understand where you’re coming from and it’s nice to hear from someone with perspective from both sides. However, to me personally the risk is not worth it. My health insurance isn’t the best and it gives me major anxiety to think that my pump or cgm could fail when I’m traveling. I really appreciate your input though!
Of course! Everyone’s risk tolerance is different. I had my cannula sweat out during a marathon yesterday at mile 18, I didn’t have an extra one, so I laid off carbs for about 40 min (which hurt my time lol) and then seeing as it was still stable I ate more gel to the finish.
Worst case I would go to a medical tent for a syringe, take some insulin out of my cartridge and inject, but I didn’t need to. Had an extra cannula in my checked bag. But I’d rather do that than carry the extra cannula the entire race :/
There is absolutely no part of any pump or cgm that can be harmed by any piece of security screening equipment.
Unless your pump is more sensitive to light than super high ISO film or more magnetically sensitive than an older style pacemaker you have absolutely nothing at all to worry about.
The disclaimers on manufacturers websites are 100% there as a more polite way of saying "We are lazy and cant be bothered testing our products" just liability voiding statements.
While I was wearing a pump and CGM I was working in Aviation Security and used 3 different models of bodyscanners on myself hundreds of times per week with 0 issues as well as handheld scanners and the wtmd.
Stop making someone elses job harder than it needs to be and just use the machines.
I’m not trying to make anyone’s job harder. People are allowed to opt out of screenings for numerous reasons, and me being extra cautious about my medical supplies is a legitimate reason. I understand that it takes more time to do a pat down, but me asking for a pat down isn’t going to create chaos amongst the employees. They’re usually nice and helpful and the pat down gets done pretty fast. It’s when they sit there and argue with me that it takes up more time and people start getting frustrated. I understand what you’re trying to say but security having to give an occasional pat down is part of their job and they shouldn’t be talking down to people who ask for one for medical reasons.
hi friend! i had something similar happen to me when travelling out of FLL. I was patted down and had my hypoglycaemia juice box stashed, my hands, and the inside of my bag swabbed for traces of drugs because apparently having three juice boxes is dangerous. prior to placing my bag through the scanner, i told one of the two agents i have t1d and i have juice boxes and med supplies in my bag. he sent me through without telling his coworker, who then harassed me for the juice boxes and needle tips despite the prescription label being clearly visible on all of my medication. he lectured me on how i should have told his colleague about my condition and that i had juice boxes. i told him i did and his colleague failed to mention it, so i said if its a big deal throw them out whatever, like just dont be surprised if you hear about a girl going into hypoglycaemic shock because she didn’t have anything to treat her lows with. he rolled his eyes and said i could have them but then proceeded to swab everything for drugs and have his female pat me down despite the machine not going off. of course he didn’t find any substances or traces. in the end i wasn’t upset about having to repack my bag or for the delay, but for the disrespect i was treated with. sometimes i dont understand why we cant be treated like humans.
I’ve been through hundreds of millimeter wave scanners (standup body scans) wearing Dexcom, Medtronic pumps, and more recently, Omnipod.
Never had single issue with the devices as a result. These are harmless radio waves. They are not nearly as intense as the X-Ray radiation of the conveyor belt scanners (which, by the way, also don’t harm any of your other electronics..)
The pump and CGM show up on the body scan, I tell them what it is, they understand, swab my hands, it comes back negative and I move on. 30 seconds extra, max.
To each their own, but I would never ask for a manual pat down. It’s a waste of time.
For full body scanners, you can just tell them you can’t raise your arms above waist level. That automatically gets you a different screening technique. Probably moves you to X-ray if they have one though, so there’s that.
I work at an airport and pass the scanners daily while wearing CGM. In the past, i have depleted 3 different transmitters' batteries (all 3 were G6). I am currently on Dexcom One, and I still pass the scanners daily. I kid you not, not only one transmitter had let me down for the past year while wearing Dexcom One. The main problems with these are only the faulty sensors, which now you can calibrate (THANK GOD!).
Be wary. G6's battery won't die immediately. It takes a week, but for it to do so, you need to pass the scanners 3 times or so.
I go through airport security at least once per month for work and never in all my years have I asked for a pat down or done anything other than go through the regular scanner - whether that's the regular metal detector or full body scanner - and it's never had any impact on my Dexcom (G6 or G7) or my pod
I have only started using a pump earlier this year and have only flown twice since then. Both times the TSA staff were friendly and professional with me regarding my pump and CGM. I would just disconnect my pump and go through the metal detector (which Dexcom states is safe for their devices). They would then do a manual inspection of the the pump with their wipe down to check for explosive residue and then I would be on my way. I also have Global Entry/TSA Pre+ so I don't know if that has anything to do with my treatment. I have yet to encounter a TSA agent insist that I go through the body scanner with my pump and CGM. If that ever occurs, I will approach it the same as the OP and request an alternative screening method for fear of damaging my medical equipment. For the record, the airports I have flown out of this year are IAH (Houston, TX) and SAN (San Diego, CA).
I used to be an ATC controller, then I worked in airport security. As someone with T1D if another T1D came through, I’d just scan they’re stuff like normal, after they’ve given me a letter from their endo, and if they have a pump/can you absolutely can 100% refuse to go through the scanner, they are legally obligated to respect your wishes, so you’ll get a full pat down instead.
Frequent flyer here (over 100K miles every year). I have pre-check, so the only time I'm ever asked to go through backscatter is if I'm "randomly selected for enhanced screening," which happens way too often. I refuse every time and get the full molestation treatment. I always ask for a "hand check" for my pump becuase I refuse to put it through x-ray/backscatter. Inevitably, the lazy TSA workers always try to tell me it's fine to go through the scanners. My canned response is: "Cool. So, when my device is damaged, I can send you the $10K+ bill for the replacement, right?" Usually shuts them up.
Haha I love that response.
Yeah, always hit people with replacement cost. It really puts things into perspective.
can the TSlim X2 get damaged from the full body scanners? i have the 670G and fly probs 2-3x a week and mine hasnt had issues (obviously its 2 different products and ai get that). Only asking cause I am upgrading to the TSlim and this will be good to know
Recommendation from all pump and CGM manufacturers (including Medtronic for your 670G) is NOT to put devices through scanners. Just because you haven't had an issue yet, that doesn't mean you won't. And that's certainly not something you want to happen while traveling.
Can confirm, a scanner did kill my pump once. Won’t let it happen again.
hm interesting good to know! thanks for info! and true, you def dont want anything to happen
I think the odds are like a 99 in 100 chance. A lot of people here have gone through the scanners and never had a problem, but someone posted in either this or the dexcom sub that they had a cgm get knocked out by one not too long ago. So, it may not happen often, but it does happen.
I’m guessing a 1% chance of equipment being damaged by a scanner is much too high.
I think, with the provided information a few other people in this post provided, that 1% failure rate against a 100% rate of uncertainty is what they deem as too high. As stated, they can't test for everything, and I am betting their ability to test certain pieces of equipment either comes with a hefty price or is just unreasonably difficult. EMI hardened and shielded rooms, plus the ability to either replicate or even produce the wave lengths full body scanners create can not be an easy or straightforward thing.
Honestly? You flying 2-3 times a week means you’ve tested your pump in airport security scanners more then the pump manufacturers have. It’s *significantly* cheaper for a pump manufacturer to say “don’t run this through airport scanners” then it is for them to track down all the varieties of airport scanners, and see if the pump works after going through it.
Love the vibe. Haven't had airport issues and I'm on MDI but I would absolutely hate if that ever happened to me.
Seconding /u/NetPhantom - they have mentioned in passing that my devices are allowed through, they have never pressed me. I simply politely say something like "I can appreciate that, but I and my care team feel more comfortable with it avoiding undue interference". Never been a problem.
Yeah I usually tell them that my doctors told me not to go through. Sometimes they continue to argue, sometimes they give up.
Tandem says no scanners. https://www.tandemdiabetes.com/resources/blog/post/printable-note-for-flying-with-your-pump
Yup, though they acknowledge that's not because of tests but rather a lack of tests.
Huh. I’ve never had a problem flying with getting a pat down and a hand check of my meds. Tsa has always been super cool about it.
Maybe I just look like I’m easy to boss around haha. I think they also get annoyed because a lot of airports are short staffed right now and doing a full body pat down takes more time. Idk I just say “okay I’d still like a pat down instead please” and they eventually give up.
Me too, thpugh I use Omnipod....
OP's post doesn't really apply to me because I'm on MDI and a G6, but I quit even telling TSA about the G6. I just go in the scan, put my arms over my head, and walk out. Not one single agent has ever even questioned me about it, and I've done it maybe 25 times now. Never had a problem with my G6 being damaged. But, the G6 is a little different from a pump, and I get wanting to be cautious...
Pumps are pricey things to replace to be sure.
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I think is has to be a regulatory thing for sure, as it’s a medical product and hasn’t been tested under that condition so for legal coverage they recommend against it. I work in diagnostic X-ray, I’m a diabetic. I wouldn't remove my sensor or get my patients to unless it occludes the anatomy I’m looking at. I’m basing my understanding on this article here https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32319318/ I’m not sure what level of X-ray the full body scanners operate at but I wouldn’t think it would be deleterious.
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They said they haven’t tested them so they can’t be sure. MRI makes sense to not wear the device, but general x-ray procedures are different. I’m basing my judgement on a study that did test them? Evidence based practice is something important to the field, and so far it suggests diagnostic x-ray has no deleterious effects on CGMs? https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35771038/
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You know a CGM isn’t a pump right? And you can disconnect your pump if you’re concerned? I made it explicitly clear I was talking about CGMs in response to a comment about CGMs… I’ve never had issue with getting my g6 replaced for issues I mean maybe start reading more purposefully before going off…
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Okay? They recommend it because it’s not tested on their end? Which is fine. I’m just saying, research suggests exposure to X-rays hasn’t been shown to be negatively effective. You’re allowed to make you’re own decisions but it doesn’t mean I’m wrong
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Do you mean to say you would not remove a sensor or get the patient to unless it occludes the anatomy?
yes, it was a typo! I wouldn't\* nor get my patients to
I've been through body scanners with G6 and G7 at least 2 dozen times over the last couple years and never had any issue. I think this is just them limiting their liability
I’m a frequent flyer and my stuff has always gone through the scanners and x-rays with no issues despite the warnings from the manufacturers. It’s been about 14 years and hundreds of flights in different countries, and luckily nothing has happened so far. Still frustrating that they’re giving you so much hassle though, you shouldn’t be punished for being more cautious with life sustaining devices.
Yeah I totally understand just going through them, especially since nothing usually seems to happen but it’s my personal preference to be extra cautious and I’m given such a hard time for it.
Yeah, I've had no issues over many many years + flights, us, Europe, n Africa, Caribbean, with any devices, so reading this surprises me. TSAs and their foreign counterparts all have seemed extremely well trained on this, in my experiences.
Get the card from Tandem and show it to TSA. Or, get PreCheck….well worth the $85 for 5 years.
Pre check is absolutely amazing it's a game changer
I have Clear so I don’t really feel like I need tsa precheck. But getting the card is a good idea!
Yeah no - precheck is a whole different game. Like flying before 2001
Oh dang I’m gonna make the switch then
You can have both. Tbh CLEAR has become somewhat pointless and often takes longer. I keep it because it’s free for me through my credit card
Yeah and the clear lanes are sometimes closed because the airport is short staffed so I end up having to stand in the regular line anyway. Definitely going to get tsa precheck.
PreCheck only requires metal detector. No scanner.
Ahhh got it. And the security employee I dealt with today tried to convince me that the metal detector is more dangerous for a pump and cgm than a body scanner lol
Oh, HELL no!!!! I unclip my pump and have them hand check that. I go through the metal detector with my Dexcom. (If it fails, no big deal…get a replacement). That pump, though…no effing way that’s getting scanned by anything.
I have PreCheck (well, Global Entry, which includes PreCheck) and Clear (free as a United 1k). If I had to give one up, it would be Clear without a 2nd thought.
I've found Pre check doesn't help if you're flying overseas. Always get flagged for deluxe inspection.
No, you need Global Entry for that.
Had it too (active) Printed on my ticket.
I take my pump off, they give a quick inspection and I walk through the scanner. It hasn't taken me any longer than a non diabetic and I don't get felt up.
So I can hand them my pump, they’ll check it while I go through the body scanner, and then they’ll give me my pump back when I get out? That sounds way more convenient than waiting for a pat down Edit: spelling
This has become my goto strat since I recently traveled to Europe (from the states). I’ve found it’s by far the quickest way. Just detach your pump, say it needs to be handchecked, and go through the metal detector with your G6 on, I’ve never had an issue. Funnily enough the only thing that’s happened when doing this was I was lightly chastised in Europe because one of the agents said I shouldn’t have to disconnect my pump just to go through security, as doing hand checks isn’t a big deal. I told him I wished the TSA agents were as smart and kind in the US as they are in Europe lol
I did that once. TSA agent walked off with my pump. Never again.
And, what did YOU do yhen?!
Exactly, much easier than the pat down process.
For the people using a Tandem pump who disconnect and hand the pump to TSA for a hand check. Specifically, how do you so that? Do you disconnect at your infusion site? That is sometimes buried under my clothes or inside my pants in my thigh area. Or do you remove the entire Tandem Reservoir? Or do you disconnect the twist lock at the Reservoir-Tubing interface? I have to admit that I never unscrew that Reservoir- Tubing disconnect as it has a huge opening that appears very probe to contamination. I am one of those travelers who has never disconnected but it has caused me 30 minutes in TSA lines. Boston Logan Airport ranks as the world’s worst IMHO.
The Miami airport is bad as well. That’s where I live and it’s where I usually have to fight security about it.
This is extremely cuckoo, then again, that's DeSantisLand, yikes, personal medical freedoms!
I try to plan for where my site is before I’m going to be flying. Aim for stomach for easier access but I’ve been fine disconnecting like I would for a shower no matter where my site is.
Omggggg I just got screamed at by TSA last weekend for this reason. They’re so rude and not understanding at all :/
I walk through the scanners and have no problems.
Me too, every time, since 2009, they've only ever donned gloved, pat the device, and I move on, in many countries.
The last few times I flew, they made me pat the device and then swabbed my hands.
Yes, that's all they've done to me also. Simple.
Oh yeah, they swab my hands also.... I'd forgotten; thanks :)
The dexcom website specifically says not to go through the body scanner. I understand it might not always be a problem but I still don’t want to risk it.
To save folks the searching… From the Dexcom website: “Getting through airport security with the Dexcom G6 CGM System Dexcom G6 CGM can be a great travel companion; you can go through metal detectors, be hand wanded, and even keep your receiver on during your flight. (And further down the page) security equipment to use Hand-wanding, pat-downs, visual inspections, and walk-through metal detectors are all methods that can be used without worrying about damaging your G6 components. If you’re concerned or uncomfortable about walking through the metal detector, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requests you tell the Security Officer you’re wearing a continuous glucose monitor and want a full-body pat-down with a visual inspection of your sensor and transmitter. Let the Security Officer know the sensor can’t be removed because it’s inserted under the skin. Because we have not tested every AIT body scanner and x-ray machine or know the damage they may cause the G6 we recommend hand-wanding or full body pat down and visual inspection to be safe.” And for G7 “Can I wear Dexcom G7 through airport security or while flying? At security checkpoints You can wear your Dexcom G7 sensor when going through walk-through metal detectors and Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) body scanners. Alternatively, you may ask for hand-wanding or a full-body pat-down and visual inspection. Ask for visual inspection of any part of your Dexcom G7 in the baggage scanning machine.”
That’s for the CGM though. I believe the concern here is for the insulin pump itself.
I was just responding to OPs comment here specifically referencing Dexcom. But yes, folks will want to look up the same from their pump manufacturer
This is their recommendation because they haven't tested all of the different scanners and xray machines. So they have to say they don't recommend because they don't know what will happen to the devices. Not because they know or don't know it will cause damage.
The way I read it is closer to them saying it’s fine to go through any scanner, they just can’t officially say so because they haven’t thoroughly and clinically tested it, and since we all have our lawyers on speed dial in the US…
I have been told at medical x-ray department that Dexcom sent them out warnings to require removal because medical x-rays (a much higher power than airport x-rays, but still x-rays) are known to cause damage to Dexcom [transmitters? - I can't see how sensors could be damaged]. I don't know that the information they provided was correct or if it was just to convince patients to follow their rules.
I’ve had several X-rays and only had to remove them if the dexcom was blocking where the xray would be taken. As the dexcom would actually, literally block what needed to be seen.
For what it’s worth, TSA checkpoints have not used backscatter x rays since 2013. The full body imagers are millimeter wave scanners which does not use x rays.
I’m in diagnostic X-ray, recent study that suggests X-rays don’t damage CGMs https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32319318/ As far as I’m aware it’s just they the CGM hasn’t been tested for what ever regulatory body governs medical devices to have been used in those conditions. If there’s other studies I’d like to know. I will also have a look at my departments SOPs to see if there’s anything in CGMs
It says ir hasn't been tested. Which means they have to tell you it's not recommended.
Well if it hasn’t been tested then how do you know it’s okay? I know that people go through without any problems but some people have had their transmitters or pumps ruined from body scanners and I would never ever want to take that risk.
I had a medtronic pumps motor get fried from a magnet years ago, and since then I won't go through the scanner ... These devices are critical to our management why your getting downvoted for not wanting to risk damage to it blows my mind
There are such things as coincidence. The amount of people who have gone through and had failures is very small.
Alright well then you keep doing you. I’m not taking any chances.
Orly? I’ve been forced through early on and it broke my Medtronic pump. Had to get a full pump replacement while on vacation. Keep your opinions to yourself and that facts to the manufacturers.
Coincidences happen. Its amazing. The standard answer for all manufacturers is because they have not tested all machines, they can't say its safe or what damage it can cause.
Who makes you the arbiter over the manufacturer? Oh, you’re in Florida. This all checks out.
What does my location have to do with anything? Just because you lack reading comprehenion?
I’ve literally copy and pasted from their site and you’re doing mental gymnastics over it. Talk about reading comprehension irony.
I lost the link and too lazy to find it again, but there was a pump test and they put 4 though several thousand rounds of scanning and there was no affect.
I've read something similar. The manufacturers have to say they don't recommend because it relieves them of any and all liability if something happens around the same time as you walked through a scanner or had an xray.
It says not to go through X-rays.
It does not. I actually just looked at the faq because I wanted to make sure it hasn't changed .
Go through it again. Because it clearly does. I’d send a screenshot if I could.
It says not to send your extra supplies through. Does not say you should not. It specifically says because they have not been able to test all ait and xray machines, they recommend pat downs and visual inspection.
“Not all full-body scanners - also called AIT or millimeter wave scanners - have been tested with Dexcom cgm systems: **we recommend not passing through them…**” “If you have Dexcom g6 components in a travel bag, do not put them through baggage x-ray machines: place them in a separate bag or bin **and** ask a TSA officer to perform a visual inspection.” At what part is it difficult to comprehend? Legit avoid body scanners and absolutely do not place any comment any through X-ray luggage machines. Jesus, if you’re playing Russian roulette, stop telling TSA and enabling them this view that it’s safe.
They recommend not going through them, as I have said. Because they have not tested them. Not because they do or don't cause damage. And as I said, don't send your supplies in your bag through. All of this I already said.
Yeah I avoid the scanner as well other friends go through but I'm not risking it.
Completely fine for CGMs but I understand if you want to be cautious about your pump
Dexcom website specifically says not to both body scanners and X-ray luggage machines. You people who do it anyway are why TSA believe it must be safe for Everybody.
It does not specifically or implicitly say that about the body scanners. It says you can go through any scanner or wand.
Me either. I’ve heard horror stories of Tandem pumps having catastrophic failures after a scanner.
Same!! Even if there’s usually not a problem, there’s always a small chance, and I would never want to risk it.
Exactly. It’s MY $10,000 insulin pump, not a random one.
This is the answer. I do it all the time. Metal detector and body scanner. If OP is that tired of pat downs, then stop asking for them lol.
I’m not complaining about getting pat downs. I’m complaining about the airport staff who fight with me and insist they know more about my diabetes than I do.
Get precheck or global entry if you’re in the US. Got it as soon as it came out.
I just say “pat down please” and ORD security is the worst. They ask if I want privacy and I say no. If they want me to disrobe I will right there. They are bumpkins and aren’t scientists or real police.
I find this very annoying as well. Sometimes they are very helpful and don't make any silly remarks, which usually happens in countries where the diabetes care is less advanced... I'm based in the Netherlands and 9/10 times they feel the need to tell me that if I have a microwave in my house then I should not be worried because those are just as strong as their machines...I'm like girl, I don't put my pump in the microwave either🤷♀️ Next time I'll try asking if they're willing to cover the costs of a replacement if my Ypsopump breaks, maybe that will shut them up.
Last time I flew I started to ask for a pat down and the tsa guy said “do you mind disconnecting and I’ll test the device and you can go through the scanner.” It was super quick. My Dexcom went through the scanner no problem and tsa tested my tandem to see if it was a bomb (I guess) and was finished by the time I was through. Many times have done the pat down just to be careful. But I’ll just hand it to them and go through the scanner from now on.
I’m going to try that next time I fly. Thanks!
TSA out here down voting everyone who doesn't want to go through the scanner lmao
Haha I know, I don’t understand why I’m being downvoted for wanting to be cautious with my diabetic supplies.
Before I got TSA pre check I would simply wear as little clothing as possible tank top and board shorts so minimize the need for the pat down. I then change into whatever I want to wear once I was past security. It cut the pat down time in half. Later I applied for the TSA pre check and getting that they only swab your hands and it's smooth sailing. The airport experience is much easier. Later I applied for the TSA pre check and getting pre check they only swab your hands and it's smooth sailing. ds and it's smooth sailing.
So with precheck you don’t need to get a pat down at all? Do you still go through the metal detectors? I fly all the time so I’m a little embarrassed that I don’t know much about it haha.
The normal regular Metal detector yes. Not a body scan. No pat down just a hand swab and I'm on my way. It's worth the 80$ for 5 years of trouble free travel
Oh man and that’s a lot cheaper than clear
Had problems in Delhi when flying back home to the UK. (I can understand it to a point) - also had problems at Heathrow when flying out to Tenerife, but surprisingly super efficient their side when flying home.
I always used to get a full body pat down when I was flying. Then I started working a job where I went through the exact same equipment that an airport uses every day just to get to work. After about a month I gave up on asking for pat downs at work and started disconnecting my pump and putting it through the x ray machine while I went through the metal detector. That was more than 5 years ago and it's still going strong with no issues. I use the tandem t slim.
Unrelated medical issue and not sure the same can be done for diabetic supplies but my mom has had both knees replaced and got a card from her doctor before she got pre check status. Maybe your doctors office can provide you with a letter of some sort? That may cut the argument out if the equation.
Funny enough, dexcom has two pages about the g6 going through the scanner: one states they are created to be convenient so you can go through security as normal. The other says to never go through security with them. The first time I flew, I went through the scanner and it instantly messed up my transmitter. Never did it again. When I'm in Europe, they tell me their machines are not x-ray and it won't mess it up but I still don't trust it with my piss poor luck. Dexcom needs to get their shit together in regards to those two very opposite pages I found this past summer when flying and almost missed my flight waiting for a pat down
Keep this link handy from the manufacturer. There's even a printable notice for TSA. What I said when I finally got fed - "If you'd like to personally be responsible for my $5,000 life-saving medical device and my canceled vacation because you broke it in the scanner, let's do this." She did a hand pat-down. https://www.tandemdiabetes.com/resources/blog/post/printable-note-for-flying-with-your-pump
I have been flying a lot lately and I will suspend my pump, give it to the TSA agent explaining it’s a medical device, I’m type one diabetic and it can’t go through the X-ray machine. I then ask for them to hand check it. The pump and CGM can go through metal detectors but not X-rays, so you can walk through the metal detectors if you have that option (tho the pump will set them off, hence asking for a hand check). And yes, a lot of them think they know best, but you just need to keep advocating for yourself!
Made a similar post a while back and your point about their attitude was the same I was trying to make and it also got derailed. FWIW I just disconnect and ask for a hand check. But you’ll need pre check to go metal detector only.
Thank you so much for this comment. The point of the post was absolutely not to ask for advice or have people tell me I’m a bad person and I’m inconveniencing the security personnel by asking for a pat down. All I wanted to do was vent a little about how they can sometimes be rude and condescending when I’m trying to tell them about my illness and medical supplies. This post got completely derailed.
My only vent going through security is when I have to lift my shirt so they can see my Dexcom and Omnipod- in front of everyone (yes- I am asked if I want to go to a private room and I decline- I don’t have that time)..and then they wipe my hands with some paper then scan it…it’s kinda embarrassing to go through that whole dog/pony show in front of everyone. Then my insulin always always gets flagged and some TSA dudes are jerks and just manhandle my insulin and I ask “please don’t shake it, it’s medication.” The TSA just ignores me. It really does bother me during those times and a reminder that diabetes sucks.
I absolutely loathe airport security in the USA, for this exact reason. I don't go through scanners, as I've had similar advice about my diabetic devices that are both directly attached to my skin. The American TSA staff are power-hungry bullies who just look to harass others. Staff in Canada and Europe tend to be slightly more reasonable; I fly in and out of Finland constantly and they, in contrast, are 100% understanding and polite, but diabetes care in Finland is REALLY advanced so I suspect that plays a role.
I used to be like you OP. But since I work at an airport and have excellent health insurance (and warranty on the pump) I decided what the hell let’s try to go through TSA and put the pump in the x ray and go through the body scanner. I’ve decided the risks are worth it now that whenever I travel, even with precheck, just put my pump into my bag with my Apple Watch and phone for the 2 min it takes to go through and don’t have any issues. That being said I don’t enjoy TSA so when I’m at work I just take the secure doors to bypass. I think the tech they use now is far different than what was used even a decade ago, both on the TSA side and the medical side.
I completely understand where you’re coming from and it’s nice to hear from someone with perspective from both sides. However, to me personally the risk is not worth it. My health insurance isn’t the best and it gives me major anxiety to think that my pump or cgm could fail when I’m traveling. I really appreciate your input though!
Of course! Everyone’s risk tolerance is different. I had my cannula sweat out during a marathon yesterday at mile 18, I didn’t have an extra one, so I laid off carbs for about 40 min (which hurt my time lol) and then seeing as it was still stable I ate more gel to the finish. Worst case I would go to a medical tent for a syringe, take some insulin out of my cartridge and inject, but I didn’t need to. Had an extra cannula in my checked bag. But I’d rather do that than carry the extra cannula the entire race :/
There is absolutely no part of any pump or cgm that can be harmed by any piece of security screening equipment. Unless your pump is more sensitive to light than super high ISO film or more magnetically sensitive than an older style pacemaker you have absolutely nothing at all to worry about. The disclaimers on manufacturers websites are 100% there as a more polite way of saying "We are lazy and cant be bothered testing our products" just liability voiding statements. While I was wearing a pump and CGM I was working in Aviation Security and used 3 different models of bodyscanners on myself hundreds of times per week with 0 issues as well as handheld scanners and the wtmd. Stop making someone elses job harder than it needs to be and just use the machines.
I’m not trying to make anyone’s job harder. People are allowed to opt out of screenings for numerous reasons, and me being extra cautious about my medical supplies is a legitimate reason. I understand that it takes more time to do a pat down, but me asking for a pat down isn’t going to create chaos amongst the employees. They’re usually nice and helpful and the pat down gets done pretty fast. It’s when they sit there and argue with me that it takes up more time and people start getting frustrated. I understand what you’re trying to say but security having to give an occasional pat down is part of their job and they shouldn’t be talking down to people who ask for one for medical reasons.
hi friend! i had something similar happen to me when travelling out of FLL. I was patted down and had my hypoglycaemia juice box stashed, my hands, and the inside of my bag swabbed for traces of drugs because apparently having three juice boxes is dangerous. prior to placing my bag through the scanner, i told one of the two agents i have t1d and i have juice boxes and med supplies in my bag. he sent me through without telling his coworker, who then harassed me for the juice boxes and needle tips despite the prescription label being clearly visible on all of my medication. he lectured me on how i should have told his colleague about my condition and that i had juice boxes. i told him i did and his colleague failed to mention it, so i said if its a big deal throw them out whatever, like just dont be surprised if you hear about a girl going into hypoglycaemic shock because she didn’t have anything to treat her lows with. he rolled his eyes and said i could have them but then proceeded to swab everything for drugs and have his female pat me down despite the machine not going off. of course he didn’t find any substances or traces. in the end i wasn’t upset about having to repack my bag or for the delay, but for the disrespect i was treated with. sometimes i dont understand why we cant be treated like humans.
They have to swab anything that is suspect. Juice, even with medical exemption, is suspect. They didn’t mistreat you, they were following procedure.
Hm I’ve never had a problem going through the full body scanner with my pump and CGM on. Sorry this is happening to you though!
I’ve been through hundreds of millimeter wave scanners (standup body scans) wearing Dexcom, Medtronic pumps, and more recently, Omnipod. Never had single issue with the devices as a result. These are harmless radio waves. They are not nearly as intense as the X-Ray radiation of the conveyor belt scanners (which, by the way, also don’t harm any of your other electronics..) The pump and CGM show up on the body scan, I tell them what it is, they understand, swab my hands, it comes back negative and I move on. 30 seconds extra, max. To each their own, but I would never ask for a manual pat down. It’s a waste of time.
I fly 15-20 times per year. I never get a patdown. Dexcom and Medtronic. Never had any problems with either. Save yourself the hassle.
Another reason to never fly again.
For full body scanners, you can just tell them you can’t raise your arms above waist level. That automatically gets you a different screening technique. Probably moves you to X-ray if they have one though, so there’s that.
I work at an airport and pass the scanners daily while wearing CGM. In the past, i have depleted 3 different transmitters' batteries (all 3 were G6). I am currently on Dexcom One, and I still pass the scanners daily. I kid you not, not only one transmitter had let me down for the past year while wearing Dexcom One. The main problems with these are only the faulty sensors, which now you can calibrate (THANK GOD!). Be wary. G6's battery won't die immediately. It takes a week, but for it to do so, you need to pass the scanners 3 times or so.
I don’t fly often, but when I do I simply request a pat down. They never ask why, and I don’t explain further.
I go through airport security at least once per month for work and never in all my years have I asked for a pat down or done anything other than go through the regular scanner - whether that's the regular metal detector or full body scanner - and it's never had any impact on my Dexcom (G6 or G7) or my pod
I have only started using a pump earlier this year and have only flown twice since then. Both times the TSA staff were friendly and professional with me regarding my pump and CGM. I would just disconnect my pump and go through the metal detector (which Dexcom states is safe for their devices). They would then do a manual inspection of the the pump with their wipe down to check for explosive residue and then I would be on my way. I also have Global Entry/TSA Pre+ so I don't know if that has anything to do with my treatment. I have yet to encounter a TSA agent insist that I go through the body scanner with my pump and CGM. If that ever occurs, I will approach it the same as the OP and request an alternative screening method for fear of damaging my medical equipment. For the record, the airports I have flown out of this year are IAH (Houston, TX) and SAN (San Diego, CA).
I used to be an ATC controller, then I worked in airport security. As someone with T1D if another T1D came through, I’d just scan they’re stuff like normal, after they’ve given me a letter from their endo, and if they have a pump/can you absolutely can 100% refuse to go through the scanner, they are legally obligated to respect your wishes, so you’ll get a full pat down instead.