Diabetes is a growing concern within the medical community, and while detection methods and treatment options are more advanced today than ever, many people, including seniors, struggle with diabetic health concerns. For most people with diabetes, regular testing of blood samples is required to check blood glucose levels to determine whether dietary changes or insulin injections are needed. Additionally, many people with diabetes will require prescription medications to aid in treating the symptoms of diabetes, but also in treating adjunct symptoms that may contribute to diabetes, including high blood pressure.
The Different Types of Diabetes
It should also be noted that diabetes comes in various forms, and each form requires a different treatment approach. Type 1 diabetes often affects children and teenagers, but it can affect anyone. This condition occurs when the cells tasked with making insulin are attacked by the body due to an autoimmune response. When this happens, blood glucose levels are not easily regulated, and patients with Type 1 diabetes will often require insulin injections. These injections are self-administered in most cases, and newer technology allows for insulin pumps to be used to automatically inject insulin when needed.
Type 2 diabetes is a condition that also affects blood glucose levels, but unlike Type 1 diabetes, it is not autoimmune in nature. Instead, Type 2 diabetes occurs when someone becomes resistant to insulin due to high levels of sugar, including sugar made in the body from carbohydrates. When this happens, blood sugar levels can rise to dangerous levels and cause severe damage to the pancreas and other organs. Many people with Type 2 diabetes will need to regularly test their blood glucose levels, and medications may be required; however, the first line of treatment is usually lifestyle and dietary changes.
Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes are the only officially recognized forms of the disease. Other conditions that affect the pancreas, insulin levels and blood glucose regulation are sometimes associated with diabetes.
Does Medicare Cover Type Two Diabetes?
Fortunately, Medicare recipients with Type 2 diabetes are usually able to receive coverage for testing supplies and regular physician visits. Medicare insurance will also usually cover two screenings per year for recipients who are at a higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. When considering coverage for self-administered testing supplies, Medicare benefits will only cover a certain amount per period depending on your need and doctor’s orders, and Medicare recipients will need to see their doctors for regularly scheduled follow-up visits to retain coverage.
Medicare may also cover the cost of insulin pumps and continuous blood glucose monitoring equipment as durable medical equipment under Medicare Part B. A prescription will be required for these types of devices, and in most situations, patients will be required to cover 20% of the cost in addition to meeting the annual deductible. If insulin is required, Medicare Part D will usually cover the cost as opposed to Medicare Part B.
Medicare Coverage for Additional Type 2 Diabetes Treatments
Some patients with Type 2 diabetes who receive Medicare benefits may also be able to receive coverage for additional diabetic care supplies, including shoes and shoe inserts that are designed for diabetic support. To learn more about your options, contact your plan for details.
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