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Diabetes can be a life threatening situation and needs to be managed on a daily basis to ensure your overall health and well-being. Whether you are insulin or medication controlled, there are ways to get your critical diabetic supplies, often at no charge to you.

The American Diabetes Association (ABA) defines diabetes as a condition in which your body doesn’t make enough insulin or has a reduced response to insulin. They estimate that over 23 million people in the United States alone suffer from this disease. When the pancreas has lost the ability to manufacture insulin, it becomes necessary to treat it with medication.

Medications to manage your insulin can take a bite out of your wallet, and in today’s economy, there are people who just aren’t able to afford their medications and supplies. According to the ADA, some people will actually skip testing to conserve their lancets and strips. This is a very dangerous practice, as blood glucose levels need to be carefully monitored to avoid serious complications like heart attack and stroke.

Some of the major pharmaceutical companies offer free supplies to people who are on low or fixed incomes, and there are also several advocacy programs which can provide your medication. Often, if you have a doctor’s prescription, these programs will deliver the insulin right to your door, which saves you on gas. They will even waive shipping charges in certain instances.

A lot of times, companies that offer free supplies will also honor supplemental insurance along with Medicare. Call a hospital near you and ask what programs they sponsor, and get ideas from them about who to contact to get assistance. When searching for companies that can help you, don’t forget charities and state run funding. Ask your doctor as well. Check with a free clinic in your area, and also talk to your pharmacist; he may have some good recommendations for you.