Free Diabetic Supplies

If you or someone in your family – especially one of your children – has diabetes, it is certain that there are many expenses that can be overwhelming to pay. 

If you and your child or spouse has diabetes just the lancets alone and the testing strips can cost $7,500 per year for two people.  After all, two people could have to test over 10 times total between the two of them every day.

If you have insurance, you may only have to pay 20% or 30% of that amount.  If you don’t have insurance, the whole amount is yours to deal with on your own.  That’s just the testing supplies.  Then we get to doctor visits and other services.  Again, depending on whether or not you have insurance and how good the insurance is, there are expenses attached to these services as well.

With the economy in the shape it is in, it is very difficult to make ends meet.  In addition, it is not an option for individuals with diabetes just not to take their medication or perform their blood glucose tests.  So, how is it possible to deal with the cost of diabetes?

One way that individuals are saving money on supplies and other diabetes costs involves searching the internet and other avenues of information to find deep discounts, coupons and other ways to save money.  Some other ways are to contact the health department, the community clinic, the local (or if necessary,the state or national) diabetes association or the local hospital for any information or discounts. 

Another thing that people are doing is participating in clinical trials.  During a clinical trial a person can get all their diabetes supplies and doctor visits at no cost, and could also get paid regularly to continue their participation in the trial.

Call manufacturers of glucose meters, tests strips and other supplies to see if they will send you some free supplies.  Many of them will do so somewhat regularly if they know you cannot afford to purchase the supplies.

Visit diabetes expos and fairs, which often feature sample products and will also put you face to face with representatives of these companies.  You can tell them the difficulties you are having getting supplies and usually they will be more than happy to find a way to help, since most companies have programs to help those who have obstacles to obtaining supplies

If you have diabetes and need supplies, the costs are making it too difficult, all is not lost.  There are ways to get supplies you need and not go broke.