Insulin Management and Strategies-ADA White Paper—Making Insulin Affordable For People With Diabetes

ADA White Paper—Making Insulin Affordable For People With Diabetes

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The American Diabetes Association (ADA) emphasizes the urgent need to make insulin more affordable in the United States, noting that approximately 11% of the population has diabetes, making it the nation's costliest chronic health condition. The report highlights that the cost of insulin has nearly tripled over the past 15 years, causing many individuals to ration the drug, with severe health consequences. Key points include:<br /><br />- **Health Disparities**: Marginalized groups, including racial and ethnic minorities, suffer disproportionately from diabetes and its complications. Socioeconomic status significantly influences diabetes outcomes.<br />- **Insulin and CGM Costs**: Insulin prices vary widely based on insurance and point of purchase. CGM systems, vital for diabetes management, also face affordability challenges.<br />- **Progress and Challenges**: Recent federal and state initiatives, like Medicare's $35 cap on insulin, have improved affordability. However, many patients, particularly those not covered by Medicare, still struggle to afford insulin. Biosimilar insulins, intended to be cheaper alternatives, are not widely available and sometimes cost more than brand-name versions due to lack of additional discount programs.<br />- **Role of Health Care Professionals (HCPs)**: HCPs can significantly impact insulin affordability through patient advocacy and policy involvement. Screening for financial barriers and understanding local resources can help patients navigate the cost of insulin and CGM devices.<br />- **Advocacy Efforts**: The ADA works at varying levels to promote policies ensuring adequate and affordable access to diabetes management tools. They advocate for legislation to cap insulin prices and encourage HCPs to engage in grassroots and policy advocacy.<br /><br />In conclusion, ensuring insulin affordability remains a shared societal responsibility. Proactive engagement by HCPs is crucial for addressing disparities and better supporting diabetes management for all.

Keywords

American Diabetes Association

insulin affordability

diabetes

health disparities

insulin costs

CGM systems

Medicare

biosimilar insulins

health care professionals

advocacy efforts