Diabetes Care

According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), approximately 537 million adults (aged 20-79) were living with diabetes worldwide in 2021. This number is expected to rise to 784 million by 2045 if current trends continue. More specifically, about 38 million Americans have diabetes (about 1 in 10), and approximately 90-95% of them have type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes most often develops in people over age 45, but more and more?children, teens, and young adults?are also developing it.

Diabetes can lead to various health complications if not managed properly. These complications include heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, blindness, and lower limb amputation. It is a leading cause of death globally.

Economic Burden

The economic burden of diabetes is substantial, encompassing both direct medical costs and indirect costs related to productivity loss and disability. Here are some key aspects of the economic impact of diabetes:

1. Direct Medical Costs: This includes expenses related to hospital admissions, doctor visits, medications (insulin, oral medications), supplies (glucose test strips, insulin pumps), and diabetes-related complications management. These costs can be significant, especially when complications arise, such as cardiovascular diseases, kidney problems, or amputations.

2. Indirect Costs: Diabetes affects individuals' ability to work and productivity due to illness, disability, or premature death. Indirect costs encompass the economic impact on society, including loss of income, reduced productivity, and increased absenteeism from work due to diabetes-related complications.

3. Impact on Healthcare Systems: Diabetes places a strain on healthcare systems worldwide due to the need for continuous medical care, monitoring, and management of associated complications. This often leads to increased healthcare spending, both in developed and developing countries.

4. Quality of Life: The economic burden extends beyond monetary costs. It affects the quality of life for individuals living with diabetes and their families. Mental health concerns, lifestyle adjustments, and the emotional toll of managing a chronic condition can also contribute to the overall burden.

5. Global Impact: The economic burden of diabetes is felt globally. The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) estimated that the total global healthcare expenditure on diabetes was around USD 760 billion in 2019. This number is projected to increase significantly in the coming years if preventive measures are not effectively implemented.

Efforts to mitigate the economic burden of diabetes include preventive measures such as public health campaigns promoting healthy lifestyles, early diagnosis, improved access to healthcare services, education on diabetes management, and research into more cost-effective treatments.

Managing Diabetes

Managing diabetes through a health insurance plan involves understanding your policy coverage, utilizing available benefits, and taking proactive steps for proper management. Here are steps to manage diabetes through your health insurance:

?

1.?????? Review Your Policy: Carefully examine your health insurance plan to understand what it covers related to diabetes care. Look for coverage details regarding doctor visits, medications, supplies (like glucose meters, test strips, insulin), and preventive services.

2.?????? Utilize Preventive Services: Many insurance plans cover preventive services like annual check-ups, diabetes screenings, and vaccinations. Use these services to monitor your health and prevent complications.

3.?????? Medication Coverage: Check if your insurance covers the medications prescribed for diabetes management. Understand if there are any preferred or generic medications that could lower your out-of-pocket costs.

4.?????? Supplies and Equipment: Some insurance plans cover diabetes supplies like glucose meters, test strips, insulin pumps, and continuous glucose monitoring systems. Understand your coverage for these essential items.

5.?????? Network Providers: Find out if your insurance plan has a network of preferred providers. Visiting in-network doctors and hospitals often leads to lower out-of-pocket expenses compared to out-of-network providers.

6.?????? Care Coordination and Disease Management Programs: Some health insurance plans offer disease management programs specifically tailored for chronic conditions like diabetes. These programs may include counseling, education, and support services to help manage your condition effectively.

Remember, each insurance plan differs in coverage and benefits. Therefore, it's crucial to thoroughly review your policy documents and contact your insurance provider for specific details regarding diabetes management coverage under your plan.