glucose meters | syringes | test strips | insulin pumps | medicalert bracelets | frequently asked questions | individual care savings
If you’re one of the 30 million Americans living with diabetes, you’ve probably noticed how expensive the supplies needed to treat the condition are. Diabetes is one of the most expensive health conditions to treat in the United States. From glucose meters to syringes, test strips and insulin pumps, the cost of a diabetes diagnosis can add up, not to mention expensive diabetes medications. Self-monitoring of blood glucose with test strips alone can cost more than 25% of all diabetes and insulin delivery costs, and the price of products varies dramatically between brands.
Fortunately, there are several ways people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes can save on the supplies they need to treat and manage their condition, and in some cases, get free diabetes supplies.
how to get free diabetic supplies
It’s no secret that the price of medical supplies can go up. We’ve put together this information to help you understand the various cost-effective methods of obtaining diabetic supplies. Some savings methods we’ll cover in more detail include getting free products from drug manufacturers; patient assistance programs and other nonprofit organizations; veterans benefits; and insurance coverage, medicare or medicaid. some states even offer specific savings programs for their residents.
glucose meters
A glucose meter is an essential product for anyone with diabetes. is a medical device that measures blood glucose levels so you can properly control your diabetes. glucose meter prices can range from $60 to $100 on average.
One of the easiest ways to get a free blood glucose meter is to contact the manufacturer directly. Most manufacturers offer free glucose monitors as a way to entice patients to purchase other brand-name supplies, such as glucose test strips, through the manufacturer. contour, for example, offers free gauges.
With that in mind, before selecting which free blood glucose meter you’d like, be sure to compare the prices of the manufacturer’s other diabetes products, particularly their test strips. Also compare prices and schedules at your local pharmacy, as glucometers can be purchased without a prescription.
Some brands you might want to consider turning to for free blood glucose meters include:
- contour next
- onetouch
- freestyle
- accu-chek
Related: How to save on freestyle libre with singlecare
syringes
diabetics use a syringe with a needle to inject insulin.
in most of the us. uu. states, patients can buy insulin syringes without a prescription. however, age restrictions and quantity limits may vary, so be sure to check your state’s rules and regulations. As with glucose monitors, one way to reduce the cost of insulin syringes is to go directly to the manufacturer. Some manufacturers also offer patient assistance programs, although some eligibility requirements apply.
It can also be beneficial to buy syringes in bulk to reduce the cost per unit.
syringes are also covered by medicare part d. To access this prescription drug coverage, you must be enrolled in a Medicare drug program. If eligible, Medicare Part D covers syringes used to administer insulin; however, you may be required to pay a coinsurance or copayment. a medicare part d deductible may also apply.
diabetes test strips
diabetes test strips are a quick and easy way to measure your blood glucose levels. This is essential for diabetes treatment, as knowing your blood sugar levels helps you manage your condition effectively.
Glucose test strips are one of the most expensive supplies needed to monitor and treat diabetes. They can be purchased over the counter at the pharmacy, online, and directly from the manufacturer. prices can vary significantly from 15 cents to $1.50 per strip, so we recommend shopping around to find the best deal.
One way to save is to buy test strips in bulk. while it means a higher initial cash outlay, it does reduce the cost per strip.
If you are enrolled in Medicare Part B, you may also be eligible for coverage of blood glucose testing supplies as they are considered Durable Medical Equipment (DME). however, you will only be covered if both your health care provider and your dme provider are enrolled in medicare. part b deductible applies, plus you pay 20% of the medicare-approved price.
Many insurers will also cover diabetes test strips; however, they can still be expensive due to deductibles and copays. Be sure to check which brands your insurer covers, as some only allow coverage for “preferred” brands, and also make sure these brands will work with your glucose meter.
insulin pumps
People with type 1 diabetes often use an insulin pump. It is a small, battery-operated device that stores and releases insulin. these pumps help mimic how a healthy pancreas would normally function, and are considered an expensive but convenient alternative to multiple times-daily insulin injections.
Insulin infusion pumps are one of the most expensive options for treating diabetes and have been reported to cost around $4,500 per person per year without insurance, not including additional costs for supplies, which can exceed $1,500 .
Insulin pumps may be covered by insurance depending on your health plan. however, many insurers will only cover a pump every few years, so be prepared to keep your pump in working order for some time.
Other ways people save on their pumps is by buying directly from the manufacturer and by applying for patient assistance programs.
related: how to pay for insulin with medicare
medicalert bracelets
Medicalert bracelets, also known as medical ID tags, are worn by people living with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes. the labels contain personal information about the person’s medical condition or allergies, in case they are unable to speak and require urgent medical attention. helps emergency medical services to treat the person effectively.
They can be the difference between life and death and, fortunately, they are available at low cost. Some insurance plans may even reimburse you for the cost of your bracelet. There are many options available, with the most popular being stainless steel. prices can range from a few dollars to $200 for more elaborate, high-tech solutions.
Some non-profit organizations, such as diabetes research & wellness foundation, provides free diabetes id necklaces upon request.
diabetes supply FAQs
how do i get my diabetic supplies through medicare?
diabetic supplies may be eligible for coverage under medicare part b and d. You may still have to pay a copay and deductible, but the cost may still be less than it would be without Medicare or other insurance.
Can you claim disability due to diabetes?
In some cases, you can claim diabetes disability, however, not everyone qualifies. Generally, you must have uncontrolled diabetes or serious health problems due to an inability to control your diabetes to receive disability benefits.
where can i get free insulin?
In recent years, the cost of insulin has skyrocketed. If you’re having trouble paying for your insulin, there are three drug manufacturers that can offer you immediate prescription assistance: Eli Lilly, Novo Nordisk, and Sanofi. The American Diabetes Association has more on how to access cheaper insulin from manufacturers.
related: how to save money on insulin, with or without insurance
how can you buy diabetes care products online?
There are several ways to buy diabetes care products online. Big box retailers, pharmacies like Walgreens and CVS, and online retailers offer extensive options for diabetes care supplies like test strips. You can also access free singlecare coupons to reduce the cost of these supplies.
how can singlecare help
While singlecare is best known for helping people access lower prescription drug prices, we also offer some of the best prices available on diabetic products like test strips, syringes, and glucometers like the freestyle libre reader.
Simply search for the diabetic supplies you need at singlecare.com, find the lowest price and show the singlecare coupon at your pharmacy to start saving today.