Over 50 Percent of People With Diabetes Struggle to Pay for Supplies

Over 50 Percent of People With Diabetes Struggle to Pay for Supplies

The American economy is struggling— and people living with diabetes are feeling the brunt of the rising prices of medical supplies and doctor visit co-pays. In a recent poll by dLife.com, more than 400 people living with diabetes revealed they struggle when it comes to paying for diabetic supplies.

Forty-nine percent said they had been able to make ends meet between health insurance and personal income, but said that the stress, especially during certain months of the year, was overwhelming.

Over 30 percent reported having to cut back on prescription drugs, supplies, and medical care to survive, and 16 percent claimed they took assistance from community or government programs that subsidize medical care and supplies.

Diabetes can be an expensive disease to manage, especially if you have inadequate health insurance. And even though it's tempting to skimp on buying test strips, testing less frequently is not a good way to economize. Here's how to make your healthcare dollars stretch a little further:

• Shop around for meters. Virtually every blood glucose monitor manufacturer offers rebates for a free or significantly discounted meter.
• Ask for samples from your doctor or CDE.
• Buy in bulk, shop warehouse stores for better prices whenever possible. If you're shopping regular stores, stock up during sales. Sign up for diabetes programs at your pharmacy. Most major chains offer rewards, points, or coupons on diabetes products.
• Don't pass up the chance to visit a healthcare fair or a diabetes expo if one comes to your town. You'll find plenty of product freebies and rebates.
• Ask your employer if they offer a cafeteria plan (also called a flexible spending account, or FSA) to pay for supplies with pre-tax dollars.
• Go generic. In some cases, lower-cost generic or store brand test strips may be an option. You can also talk to your doctor about generic options for your prescription drugs.