Type 1 diabetes (T1D) does not take a break for a global pandemic, or for anything else. It is a chronic health condition that must be managed 24/7/365. Access to affordable medical and testing supplies is critical for patients. With unemployment skyrocketing as an effect of the coronavirus outbreak, many people have lost their employer-provided healthcare. Without insurance (or income from a steady job), paying for diabetes supplies can become difficult.
In an effort to better support individuals impacted by the loss of insurance due to COVID-19, Dexcom is launching a patient assistance program. The program will provide eligible participants with “two 90-day supply shipments, with each dispatch including one transmitter and three boxes of sensors at just $45 per 90-day shipment” according to the organization.
This will allow patients to continue following their normal management routine without fear of how they will afford their CGM supplies. The program will be rolled out over the next few weeks and last through the duration of the COVID-19 pandemic. U.S. residents who receive state or federal assistance through programs such as Medicare, Medicaid, or VA benefits are not eligible to participate.
Dexcom’s patient assistance program is just one more example of businesses stepping up to support individuals during this time of need. In recent weeks, pharmaceutical companies have also been providing assistance by reducing or limiting out-of-pocket costs for insulin. Diabetes Research Connection (DRC) is glad to see that individuals with T1D are receiving support to ensure their needs are met and their health is effectively managed during these challenging times. Until a cure for diabetes is found, the need for insulin and continuous glucose monitors remains a priority.
DRC continues to work toward finding a cure and improving treatment options by providing critical funding to early-career scientists. Learn more about current projects and how to help by visiting http://localhost/drc.