Prescriptions can be expensive, especially when you need monthly refills. Prescriptions for diabetics, like insulin and other diabetes supplies, are no exception. However, these prescription medications don't have to result in out-of-pocket expenses. Medicare can help those who qualify by covering their prescription medication costs. With the help of Medicare prescription drug coverage, the cost of your glucose home test kits and insulin are covered.

Where to Begin

To decide if it's right for you, you may want to review the Medicare prescription drug coverage plan, the Medicare advantage plan, and other various Medicare health plans that include drug coverage. You can find more information and compare these plans using Medicare.gov. After reading over the various plans, you can talk to a Medicare administrator about any questions you may still have.

What to Keep in Mind

In order to receive Medicare benefits, you must first qualify for coverage. You're eligible for Medicare if you're 65 or older and you or your spouse worked 10 years for a company that offered Medicare coverage. You must also be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident to qualify.^[1]

It is important to understand that Medicare works similar to insurance companies. You will have to pay a premium, which varies from plan to plan. In some cases, you may need to pay part of your prescription. These are called co-payments. If you're drawing an income below the specified limits, you may be entitled for assistance, allowing you to appeal for help from Social Security.

Coverage

Medicare covers fasting blood glucose tests (FPG), blood glucose meters, test strips, lancet devices, lancets, and control solutions, but it does not cover insulin, insulin syringes or pens, and some oral medications.

As a Medicare holder, you're eligible for a FPG test if you have high blood pressure, high cholesterol or triglyceride levels, or are obese. You may also qualify for free testing if you have a history of gestational diabetes or diabetes, are overweight, or 65 or older. However, to receive coverage for medical drug prescriptions, you will also need to have Medicare prescription drug coverage. Anyone with Medicare can qualify for Medicare prescription drug coverage; however, Medicare holders must also be a part of an authorized insurance company.

Ordering Diabetes Supplies

Diabetes supply companies provide affordable diabetic medical supplies, including diabetic testing equipment, testing strips, and other items. Some of these companies also cater to your needs for insulin pumps, lancets, lancet holders, and testing solutions. In addition to offering affordable diabetes supplies, some companies deliver supplies straight to your doorstep. With home delivery, diabetics do not have to worry about running short of medical supplies.

With Medicare prescription drug coverage, you don't have to pay for expensive prescriptions. If you qualify, Medicare prescription drug coverage can provide assistance. As a Medicare holder, you can receive quality medical supplies at an affordable price. Talk with your physician and a Medicare administrator to learn more about Medicare benefits. They can help you choose a plan that is right for you.

^[1] http://www.medicare.gov/MedicareEligibility/Home.asp?dest=NAV|Home|GeneralEnrollment#TabTop