Insulin is critical for many people who have diabetes. Without it, it can be difficult or even impossible to keep the condition under control. Yet, it’s becoming harder and harder for them to afford this life-saving medication. In fact, the price of insulin has increased significantly in the last decade and you might have to spend thousands per month to get what you need.
Five ways to afford your insulin
1. Ask about pharmaceutical assistance programs
A lot of drug manufacturers have programs in place that will help people afford their insulin. The criteria may differ from one program to the other, but your income is usually a determining factor.
Some programs are designed specifically for those who have limited or no insurance coverage. It’s also important to pay attention to how often your access will need to be renewed as the assistance can last from 90 days to a year.
2. Look for copay coupons
This is another option that’s offered by drug manufacturers. You can be issued coupons or drug cards depending on the manufacturer. Unlike the pharmaceutical assistance programs, the copay coupons aren’t based on what you earn.
However, there may be some limitations if you’re insured, though. With this program, you can get discounts when buying insulin or get the drug at a set monthly cost.
3. Check out program matching services
If you’re looking for the best deal based on the specific insulin you use, then program matching services are your best bet. While these services don’t provide discounts directly, they can easily show you the most affordable way to get your insulin.
4. Use coupon sites and loyalty programs
Coupon sites allow you to get insulin at a reduced cost. Some sites will also give you a discount card that you can use regularly. With these coupons, it’s best to call around to see which pharmacies will accept them.
If you often purchase from a certain pharmacy, it might be worthwhile to find out if they have any loyalty programs that you can join.
5. Get qualified for government assistance
Depending on where you live, you might be able to qualify for a government assistance program that will help you afford insulin. These programs can vary from state to state but they’re typically meant for those in a particular income bracket.
Why you shouldn’t skip doses
There’s more than your blood sugar at stake when you don’t control diabetes. When it’s allowed to run rampant, diabetes can affect multiple organs and systems in the body. Some of the health issues that are associated with poorly managed diabetes include vision loss, heart attack, stroke, gum disease, nerve damage, and kidney problems. Diabetes can also severely impact the circulation of blood around the body, resulting in the amputation of your limbs.
Why black people should pay attention
According to recent statistics, black Americans are 60 percent more likely to be diagnosed with diabetes than other ethnicities. Additionally, they’re almost four times as likely to be hospitalized for conditions related to uncontrolled diabetes and have a 2.5 times higher risk of developing long-term complications.
Finally, black people are over three times more likely to be diagnosed with endstage renal disease and twice as likely to die from diabetes than other ethnicities.
Despite those numbers, though, studies show that black Americans usually don’t get the regular examinations that are recommended for those with diabetes. They’re also more prone to have a less strict medication regimen.
Of course, different factors can influence why someone might not take their insulin as they should. If affordability is the issue for you, then it’s a good idea to make use of any program for which you qualify.
Many black Americans are living with diabetes and a large percentage of them aren’t getting the treatment they need. If you’re concerned about the affordability of your insulin, it’s a good idea to check out the programs listed above. The last thing you need to deal with is the complications that come from uncontrolled diabetes.
