Diabetes and You: Managing Expenses with Healthcare Plans

As people age, their bodies may become more prone to developing chronic illnesses, such as type 2 diabetes. This condition can be challenging to manage, especially for seniors who may also be dealing with other health issues. However, there is good news: seniors with type 2 diabetes have a special enrollment period all year long due to their chronic condition. Moreover, there are special plans available that provide better prescription drug coverage, including some insulins that are covered in the coverage gap known as “the donut hole.”

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body uses glucose, which is the primary source of energy for your cells. In this condition, your body becomes resistant to insulin, which is a hormone that helps glucose enter your cells. As a result, glucose builds up in your bloodstream, which can lead to various health complications, such as heart disease, kidney failure, and blindness.

For seniors with type 2 diabetes, managing their condition can be challenging, especially if they are on a fixed income. Prescription drugs, including insulins, can be expensive, and it may be challenging to afford them. However, Medicare offers special plans that are designed to provide better prescription drug coverage to people with chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes.

One of the key benefits of these plans is that they cover some insulins that are typically not covered under regular Medicare Part D plans. This can be a significant cost savings for seniors who need these medications to manage their condition. Moreover, these plans can also provide coverage for other diabetes-related supplies, such as test strips and glucose meters.

Another advantage of these chronic condition plans is that they offer coverage in the coverage gap, commonly known as “the donut hole.” This is a period during which seniors have to pay a higher percentage of their prescription drug costs until they reach a certain out-of-pocket threshold. However, chronic condition plans provide better coverage during this period, which can save seniors money on their medications.

Seniors with type 2 diabetes should be aware of their special enrollment period and consider enrolling in a chronic condition plan that provides better prescription drug coverage. This can help them manage their condition more effectively and reduce their out-of-pocket costs for medications. Moreover, they should talk to their healthcare provider to ensure that they are taking the appropriate steps to manage their condition, such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and monitoring their blood sugar levels.

In conclusion, seniors with type 2 diabetes face unique challenges when it comes to managing their condition. However, there are special plans available that can provide better prescription drug coverage, including some insulins that are covered in the coverage gap known as “the donut hole.” Seniors with type 2 diabetes should be aware of their special enrollment period and consider enrolling in these plans to help them manage their condition more effectively and reduce their out-of-pocket costs for medications.

Family Benefit Services is committed to helping our clients live healthy & productive lives. Type 2 diabetes is treatable. Don’t put yourself at risk for heart disease, stroke, and nerve damage. Seniors with diabetes are eligible to change plans mid-year do address this chronic condition. Call Family Benefit Services today for more information such as insulin coverage in the gap.