Diabetes is a disease that is largely self-managed. In order to stay healthy, a person with diabetes needs access to supplies like test strips, meters and insulin. Usually, people are able to get these medications and supplies covered through their health insurancae policies.
For a person with diabetes, obtaining and keeping health insurance and life insurance can be very difficult or -- sadly -- impossible to do. However, there may be other options available. To learn about your options, please select the category below that best represents your current situation.
American Diabetes Association a Proud Supporter of Cover the Uninsured Week (PDF)
As the nation’s leading health non-profit organization supporting diabetes research, information, and advocacy, the American Diabetes Association will join various health associations, organizations, and supporters during “Cover the Uninsured Week” (April 23-29). Nearly 21 million American children and adults have diabetes, but many are uninsured and cannot access the supplies, medications, and education necessary to successfully manage the disease and prevent diabetes-related complications such as heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, blindness, and lower-limb amputation.
Research on Health Insurance and Diabetes
On February 8, 2005, the American Diabetes Association -- in conjunction with the Georgetown University Health Policy Institute -- released "Falling Through the Cracks: Stories of How Health Insurance Can Fail People with Diabetes" This report provides a critically important window into the health insurance coverage problems faced by Americans with diabetes, and highlights the need for accessible, affordable, and adequate health insurance.
Health Insurance Information for People with Diabetes
Health Insurance in Your State
If you are having trouble getting or keeping health insurance, our state health insurance pages may help! Find out what health insurance programs exist in your state and how to contact them.
65 and Over
Health insurance options available to individuals 65 years and older
Currently Insured through Employer
Health insurance options available to employed individuals. The most common way that Americans get health insurance coverage is through their employer.
Disabled
Health insurance options available to people with disabilities.
Low-Income
Health insurance options available to people with modest income.
Parent of a Child with Diabetes
Health insurance options available to children with diabetes.
Self-Employed/Small Business Employee
Health insurance options for self-employed and small business owners
Unemployed
Health insurance options available to unemployed individuals
Uninsured
Health insurance options available to uninsured individuals
Veteran/Military Personnel
Health insurance options available to Veterans and Military Personnel
Additional Resources
Commonly Asked Questions
The American Diabetes Association would like to thank the Georgetown University Health Policy Institute for their work compiling much of the information found at this site.
Life Insurance
Once a person is diagnosed with diabetes, life insurance policies sold within the United States can become unaffordable or unavailable.
