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Financial Help for Diabetes

In the 2009 U.S. health care system, diabetes is a pre-existing condition: health insurance companies de-facto discriminate and decline coverage unless you are part of group coverage. A partnership of two qualifies for group coverage. Better to stay away from discount health and medical plans, which are not health insurance (check the rating of the offering plan with the Better Business Bureau). There are no loans or grants as diabetes financial help.

  1. If You Are Employed

    • If you are employed, you can get good coverage through your employer.

      If you are self employed and are incorporated or simply have a partnership of two, you can apply for group coverage and get good health insurance. Most HMO plans are quite good and offer more affordable prices.

      Invest time in researching alternatives and ask questions of anybody who wants to sell you a policy until you get the answers that you want.

    Government and State Plans

    • You qualify for Medicare (government funded health insurance) if you are:
      65 or older, younger than 65 with certain disabilities or with end-stage renal disease.

      Medicare covers diabetes services and supplies. Also available is Medicare for people with limited income and resources. Also available is Medicaid or Medical Assistance, a joint federal and state government program, and State Children health Insurance Program (SCHIP).

    If You Don't Qualify for Medicare or Medicaid

    • If you don't qualify for Medicare or Medicaid and you can afford the very expensive monthly premiums, you may find private health coverage under HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability).

      If you left a job, you may be able to continue the group health insurance that you had, at a higher rate, under the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) for up to 18 months. During this time, make sure to get another job or join in group coverage or start your own business and apply fro group coverage through your company or partnership.

    Health Care Services

    • You can find primary and preventive health care through the Bureau of Primary health Care, if you qualify. For people with no insurance fees are based on family size and income. Check with your local centers (1-888-ASK HRSA).

      If you are a veteran you can find assistance in hospitals and clinics run by the Department of Veterans Affairs.

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