Diabetes is a lifelong illness that must be managed very carefully to avoid serious complications. Diabetes supplies like test strips, lancets, glucose meters, and insulin pumps can drain your wallet, especially if you need to purchase these items frequently. The average person with diabetes spends around $8,000 per year on diabetes management. If you struggle to pay for your diabetes supplies month after month, you’re not alone. Here are seven ways to help you save on diabetes supplies.
- Use supplies covered by your insurance. If you have options available to you, always try the diabetes supplies covered by your insurance company before you move on to other options. Insurance companies will sometimes offer more coverage for specific blood glucose meters or insulin pumps, meaning you’ll have a lower copay. Check with your plan directly for details on which supplies they cover.
- Shop around. Check the ads for your local supermarkets and drugstores regularly for weekly coupons on glucose meters and test strips. If you find a drugstore or supermarket with cheap diabetes supplies and a rewards program, sign up! You may be able to accrue points you can redeem for more supplies later on.
- Buy online. Big-box retailers like Walmart and Amazon often carry diabetes supplies in bulk at lower prices when you buy online. Before you buy in-store, check for the supplies you need at one of these retailers. Play close attention while shopping online to make sure you get the right test strips for your specific glucose meter.
- Contact a certified diabetes educator. Certified diabetes educators (CDEs) have depths of knowledge when it comes to managing this illness. They will likely know of special discounts and programs you can take advantage of in order to reduce your diabetes costs as much as possible. Ask your doctor to refer you to one, or search the National Certification Board for Diabetes Educators website to find a CDE in your area.
- Ask for samples. Ask your doctor, certified diabetes educator, or diabetes supply company if they have any samples available.
- Apply for assistance programs. Some manufacturers and charitable groups will provide diabetes medications and supplies at low or no cost for qualified patients. However, most programs will not accept your application if you already have health insurance. You may also be able to find an online support group that offers supplies to those in need.
- Volunteer for research studies. Local hospitals and research centers will often provide you with diabetes supplies if you volunteer for a research study. Search the American Diabetes Association’s website to find a research study near you.
Diabetes can be an expensive disease to manage, but it’s important that you don’t skimp on the necessary equipment and supplies. Doing so could jeopardize your health and cause more expensive problems later on.