Sarah of the online forum “Diabetes Daily” posted a piece on Monday about traveling with an insulin pump, and how to best handle the TSA airport security process.

Her article was along the same subject as mine from last fall – and we both agree that “Don’t volunteer unless necessary,” is the best personal policy for expediting yourself through the process most efficiently.

The TSA blog “Evolution of Security” picked up her post, and also referenced my article in this post titled “Traveling 101 for Diabetics.”

Many comments followed, including a few valid and well written questions about CGMs (constant glucose monitors) that some diabetics use in tandem with insulin pumps.

TSOs (officers) Ron and Bob also responded to some comments which I consider absurd, like “Why should a diabetic be forced to disclose their medical condition?” and incorrectly citing HIPPA.  My response was that saying “I’m a diabetic” and giving a 10 second summary of your medical device at security is not volunteering your entire medical history.  It’s logical to assume that if carrying a medical device on your person a quick “This is what this is for” isn’t too much to ask.

Its a two way street.  I’ve criticized the TSA in the past.  And the ridiculous concept of “security theater” is still well in play.  However if we demand they improve we must give them the option to do so, especially on the individual level where it matters most.  Unfortunately their past newsworthy screw ups and arcane rules on shoes and liquids still give them a bad name.

TSO Bob’s latest comment is that “This blog post will be mentioned in the nationwide briefings.”

This is great to hear, even if I as the cynic picture a lead TSO standing at a podium reading the blog post while the room full of attendees act like the cast of Reno 911.   But I’d rather assume that the TSOs will be further educated on insulin pumps, CGMs, and the monitors that diabetics use.  These ancillary and non-tethered gadgets may look like an insulin pump but are in fact constant blood glucose monitors they carry on their person.

It’s nice to know that bloggers like Sarah, myself, and others can make a direct impact and educate the security screeners.  Thanks for an interesting and educating discussion on the TSA blog, and for the TSO contributors’ comments.

Related posts:

Diabetes and the TSA
Minimed Constant Glucose Monitor
I Am Now Part Robot
A Touchy TSA Issue

p.s.  This Wilford Brimley clip is really funny.  by James Van Dellen