Diabetics require daily glucose testing and regular visits to the physician. These routine procedures can add up, leading to significant out-of-pocket losses. This can cause some diabetics to reuse old testing supplies or skip on glucose testing or insulin shots altogether. With providers modifying insurance plans, many diabetic seniors are concerned about their Medicare coverage. Fortunately, Medicare has implemented an insurance plan that lowers medical costs for seniors with diabetes. With the help of Medicare, diabetic supplies are easily available and affordable.
Who's Covered
Medicare can help those eligible for Medicare and are also at risk diabetes, including Medicare receivers suffering from high blood pressure, high cholesterol and triglyceride levels or obesity. If you struggle with high blood sugar, you may also be eligible for assistance. In addition to having any of these risk factors, Medicare can also assist eligible people who have a family history of either diabetes or gestational diabetes, over the age 65 or are overweight. If you meet two of the four criteria, you are eligible for two free fasting blood glucose tests (FPG). [1]
The FPG test is the preferred diabetes diagnostic test, measuring how well your body uses insulin. A FPG test is a simple way to gauge your risk for prediabetes (abnormally high blood glucose levels) or diabetes. Based on your results, your doctor may recommend a treatment plan meant to lower your blood glucose level and improve your overall health. An early diabetes diagnosis can also reduce your risk of developing other health complications like heart disease, limb amputation, and cancer. It's important to note that you must submit to two FPG tests on different days to confirm a diagnosis. Since these are classified as two separate tests, you only qualify for free FPG tests once a year.
What's Covered
With Medicare, diabetes supplies are covered, including blood glucose monitors, test strips, lancet devices, lancets, and control solutions. Patients must provide documentation to qualify for these Medicare diabetes supplies. In certain cases, therapeutic shoes are also covered. If you qualify, the Medicare prescription drug coverage can also cover insulin syringes and oral medication. In addition to providing coverage for some diabetic supplies, Medicare offers diabetes management sessions for those at risk of developing diabetes-related conditions. To qualify for coverage, you must have a itten document from your physician recommending you participate in these sessions. Many Medicare diabetic supplies will also include discounted or sometimes free shipping to your home, helping to further reduce your costs. With home delivery of diabetic supplies, Medicare makes it easy for diabetics to maintain stable blood glucose levels.
Talk with your primary care physician about Medicare benefits. He or she can help you decide whether or not you qualify for Medicare diabetic supplies and yearly testing. Your physician may also be able to provide information about how much you can obtain. Discussing the specifics of your Medicare diabetes supplies plan with your Medicare administrator can ensure you receive the most your coverage has to offer.
[1]
http://www.medicare.gov/%28X%281%29S%283cljdd55q5q1unakbasrqc45%29%29/navigation/manage-your-health/preventive-services/diabetes-screening.aspx