Life with diabetes can be expensive for many people, with the condition often requiring a variety of medications, technology, and other supplies. However, there are discounts and resources available to help offset some of the costs.

The American Diabetes Association (ADA) estimates that almost a third of people with diabetes don’t check their blood sugar due to the cost of blood glucose monitoring test strips. The organization also reports that many people forego other supplies, like continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), due to financial strain.

Though affording these tools can be challenging for people without insurance or with limited coverage, there are certain ways to help reduce costs or find financial assistance.

You may find that the diabetes supplies you need to manage your condition are quite costly. These devices and supplies may include:

  • fingerstick blood meters
  • test strips for fingerstick meters
  • lancet needles to poke your finger
  • insulin pens or syringes to take your insulin

Of course, this doesn’t include medications, such as insulin, which can be expensive even with insurance or other discounts applied.

You can discuss coverage for any diabetes supplies or medications with your healthcare team, insurance company, or local pharmacist.

A CGM is a diabetes tool that may help you manage your blood glucose levels more effectively than traditional glucose meters. Even though CGM devices — such as Dexcom or the FreeStyle Libre — can play a major role in managing diabetes, they are higher in cost and are not accessible to many people.

According to research from 2020, out-of-pocket costs for CGMs (including the transmitters, sensors, and batteries) typically range from $2,500 to $6,000 per year for people without insurance.

Insurance coverage can help relieve some of the financial burden, but copays and deductibles will still apply.

Despite the benefits of real-time diabetes data, you may not be able to afford a CGM. If you don’t have insurance or your plan doesn’t cover your CGM, the manufacturer may offer a patient assistance program that you might qualify for.

Your healthcare team might be able to provide information about discounts or other solutions to help you afford these costs.

People who can’t access CGMs may also need to use other diabetes technology, such as standard glucose monitors that require finger pricks to measure blood sugar levels.

Since many health insurance plans cover CGM devices, it’s a good idea to understand the specific details of your policy.

You will want to find out what your insurance policy covers, the extent of that coverage, and whether you’ll need to pay any copays or deductibles. These factors can help reduce your out-of-pocket costs.

It’s best to talk with your insurance company about specific costs and details on coverage.

Some people choose to use their CGM less often to save on supplies. For many who use CGM technology these days, the newer models can often be used without a separate receiver or handheld device.

Instead, they connect directly to smart devices or smartwatches. This may be an option that can reduce costs if you don’t need to buy a separate handheld receiver to view your CGM data.

If you don’t have insurance, you may also want to contact the manufacturer directly or visit their website to determine if they offer patient assistance options and to check whether you qualify. They might also provide discounts, rebates, or other periodic financial assistance to help with costs.

Using health savings or flexible spending accounts

People with a flexible spending account (FSA) or a health savings account (HSA) may be able to use those funds to cover CGM costs. FSA and HSA accounts allow you to use pretax dollars for medical expenses, with certain restrictions on what you can purchase.

People seeking free diabetes supplies can check with organizations such as the Diabetes Foundation, which has more information and resources.

You may also be able to find free health clinics, often run by volunteers and charitable organizations, which may offer diabetes supplies at no cost to you. These clinics provide healthcare resources for people without insurance and those who don’t have the financial means to afford medications and supplies.

Online platforms, forums, and social media groups focused on diabetes support might also share information on where to get free supplies.

Resources for affording diabetes care

Financial aid for people with diabetes is available through various agencies and organizations. You may find some assistance through government programs, such as Medicaid or Medicare. These typically offer some coverage for CGM devices to those who qualify.

Certain nonprofit organizations can also provide financial support, resources, and other guidance for people managing diabetes

These organizations include:

The tools often necessary for managing diabetes, including CGM technology, can be unaffordable for many people with diabetes.

But you may find help affording diabetes supplies in many places, including insurance coverage, discounts, and community support.

Your healthcare team may also be able to help with assistance and different access issues, including diabetes supply or medication costs. They can help you find the right support and ensure that you can manage your blood sugar effectively.