According to the American Diabetes Association, diabetes is the fastest growing disease in America.
Over 1.
6 million new cases diagnosed every year in people over 20 years of age.
Additionally, 1 in every 400-600 people under the age of 20 has diabetes.
While there is no cure for diabetes, there are several ways to manage your blood sugar level, including diet, exercise, and in some cases, medications.
However, in every case your health care provider will prescribe a blood sugar testing regimen.
Regular and consistent blood sugar testing is vital to maintaining normal blood sugar levels.
Therefore, Medicare, State Medicaid programs, and most private insurance companies cover the cost of the diabetes supplies.
Here is where it can get confusing.
As unpleasant a thought as it might be, here in the land of opportunity, if there is way to capitalize on the misfortunes/needs of others, the vultures come preying.
In this case of providing diabetes supplies, big, mega-companies are not only spending millions on TV advertising, but millions on courting physicians to refer your business to their company.
Add to this a whole host of small local companies doing the same.
Additionally, chain pharmacies and big retail stores have shelves lined with a wide variety of diabetes supplies.
What all these companies don't tell you, most certainly the ones that are courting your physician is that YOU HAVE A CHOICE! Questions to help you decide: a.
What is my out of pocket expense? Medicare, Medicaid, and most insurances pay an average of 80%of the standard allowable (Deductibles will apply).
If you have a secondary insurance, it will cover the remainder.
Most reputable companies are provided with free starter kits, which includes a glucometer.
If you are asked to pay for the meter, keep looking.
b.
How do I get my diabetes supplies? Studies show that those who receive their supplies at home are much more likely to do regular and consistent blood sugar testing.
Do you get free shipping right to your door? c.
What about reordering my supplies? Automatic shipping of your diabetes supplies is not only illegal, but it is also just wasteful! A reputable company will contact you to determine if you need to replenish your diabetes supplies.
d.
What if I have questions? You will want to look for a provider that has a staff of knowledgeable and certified experts, who are readily available to answer your questions.
Many companies these days use automated phone systems; press 1 for "__", 2 for "__.
" Look for a company that actually answers the phone! e.
Will my chosen provider be in business next year? In the environment we discussed earlier, many companies are popping up to take advantage of the market, but may not be able to survive the coming reductions in reimbursement.
On the other hand, some of the larger, publicly traded companies are under pressure from their shareholders to get bigger and bigger.
You want to look for a company that is large enough to meet your needs now and in the future, but still small enough to care about you! There are several good companies out there that do meet all the points made in items (a) through (e).
The right choice can be tough, but help is available.