How Can I Get Medicare Diabetic Supplies?

Continued From << Medicare Diabetic Supplies

If you require testing kits, monitors and lancets, you might also need to undergo training with your doctor in order to learn how to properly use the equipment and interpret the results.  Since Medicare can cover for these diabetic supplies, your certification should also show that you have undergone proper training and that you have the skills necessary to use the equipment.

Are all my diabetic supplies for free?

You don’t have to pay for many of the diabetic medical supplies you can obtain through Medicare, although a limited number of diabetic supplies may be had under certain restrictions.  For example, Medicare will only cover approximately 80% of the cost of therapeutic shoes and you will have to pay for the rest.  You will also have to pay 20% of the amount approved by Medicare after the annual Part B deductible. 

If you obtain your diabetic supplies from Medicare, make sure to take note of what you order, how many and when.  If some supplies are delivered to you which you did not order and you accept them, you might be billed for them in the future.

Sidebar: Next we present you with an article group about other topics not covered by previous articles, and we named this group diabetes continuing education.

What other information should my prescription contain?

Your doctor's prescription should state whether you use insulin or not.  It should also state the frequency with which you test for blood sugar.  In case you need special testing kits and equipment, your prescription should indicate the reasons why.

What other things should I remember when using Medicare to obtain diabetic supplies?

Medicare has all the information you need at their website http://www.medicare.org/, which you can check to understand how their program can work for you.  As a diabetes patient under Medicare, you should also be aware of your guaranteed rights in order for you to maximize your use of Medicare's services.

Refer to your handbook for a more detailed look at how you are protected.  If you do not have the handbook yet, get in touch with Medicare through 1-800-633-4227 or visit their website.

While research can be an excellent tool in the management of diabetes, nothing can and should replace information that your doctor or healthcare provider can give.  Medicare's services are available to assist you in obtaining diabetic supplies, but make sure you work closely with your doctor in order for you to be able to take full advantage of Medicare's diabetes supplies and its other programs.