The process required to get health insurance for diabetics is similar to what is required to get insurance for anyone else. One must fill out an application for a health insurance plan and then speak with a representative with each company to determine what the payments and coverage would be. Not all companies offer coverage to those with diabetes, and some charge very high payments and deductibles. This is becoming less common as more areas pass laws stating that insurance companies must cover everyone regardless of health status.
For an individual to get health coverage he or she must contact insurance providers and ask for a quote. Getting health insurance for diabetics can be tricky in some areas, although if the person is in good health and properly monitors his or her condition, it may be easier and cheaper to obtain. The main reason diabetics are charged more for their condition is because it often requires monthly supplies of test strips, meters, insulin, and needles and diabetes can sometimes lead to serious health complications.
In the United States many people who are over the age of 65 or who are disabled may be eligible to get their diabetes materials covered through Medicare, but not everyone will be accepted into this program. Employees may receive coverage through their place of employment at a lower cost than they would receive with an individual policy, but prices may still be higher due to their condition.
Children and other dependents often receive benefits through their parents or their parents’ places of employment. Health insurance for diabetics through a parent or guardian is still typically more expensive, but it is often available. When the child is no longer a dependent, many areas and companies offer extension programs. Some are required to offer the child an individual policy, some government companies may provide extended coverage, and other organizations may require the insurance provider to still cover the person as a dependent even after coverage is supposed to end.
Those with diabetes or diabetic children are encouraged to search all of their options. Low-income families or children may be entitled to government funded insurance plans or subsidized insurance in some locations. Health insurance for diabetics is available, but it may take looking through various options before each patient finds his or her ideal policy.
If insurance has been denied to some patients and their test supplies are being purchased out of pocket, some medical supply companies offer programs for those with low income. Patients are encouraged to ask about such programs with the company offering their diabetic maintenance supplies. Pharmacies also sometimes offer lower priced medications or free medications for generic drugs or to those who cannot afford to pay.