Probably the biggest and most accessible help with diabetic needs comes from the government. On a federal level, help with diabetic financial burdens can be attained from both Medicaid and Medicare.
Medicaid – Medicaid is state-run, but federally mandated and is primarily aimed at low income individuals. The qualifications vary by the state, but in general the age range for help with diabetic supplies and other needs is between 18 and 64. Income must be below the poverty level, thee needs to be a child in the home and usually at least one person in the house needs to be totally disabled. The program will help with doctor visits, emergency and hospital services, and a small list of medications. To get Medicaid help with diabetic related costs, contact your state Department of Social Services to see what you might qualify for.
Medicare – Medicare will provide help with diabetic care for U.S. citizens over the age of 65. Some disabilities will cover younger people and kidney failure caused by diabetes is eligible for some limited help. Medicare will give help for diabetic supplies like glucose test monitors, test strips, lancets, and nutritional therapies. To find out what kind of help you may qualify for, call the National Diabetes Education Program at 1-800-438-5383 or get in touch with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services at 1-800-633-4277. They also have online information at their www.medicare.gov website.
Do any private companies offer help with Diabetic Supplies?
There are actually quite a few companies that will offer help with diabetic supplies like glucose monitors and test strips. You have probably seen TV commercials by companies like Liberty Medical or Alliance Health Care. But although their commercials make it seem like this is completely free help with diabetic supplies, a close look at the fine print will clue you in to the fact that you have to be able to qualify for Medicare or be lucky enough to have health insurance without a deductible. So in essence, while these companies provide a convenience, they are really just acting as a middleman between you and the help you are already qualified for.
What about help with diabetic medicines?
A lot of drug companies make free samples available either through your doctor or directly from them. A website called QualityHealth.com will allow you to become a member for free in and in turn alert you to what kinds of samples or freebies are available and from whom.
If you can’t afford the medicines you need, your doctor can likely refer you to a program that will provide help with diabetic medicine. Many of the drug companies that manufacture the drugs will have programs you might be eligible for.
There is lots of help for diabetics out there, and a little legwork on your part will turn up many more. The internet is a valuable resource.
