What I Pay to Stay Alive with Type 1 Diabetes | She's Diabetic

Exactly what I personally pay to stay alive with Type 1 Diabetes ◉ Subscribe: goo.gl/ZfjYfu
Type 1 Diabetes is a notoriously costly condition to live with. But how much exactly? Where do the costs come from? In this video I absolutely bare all and share exactly what I pay on average per year to live with my Type 1 Diabetes.
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[@im_just_better_fr]

as a 13 year old who got diagnosed with t1 diabetes on 12-12-2023 these vidoes help me feel that even tho i got diagnosed with diabetes it won't ruin my life

[@hummadruz]

Over here in the UK I shall be forever grateful to our NHS. I was diagnosed Type1 way back in 1976 when treatment tools were primitive by todays standards (anyone remember urine tests?). Today, at the age of 62 I benefit from an Ypsomed insulin pump, a Freestyle Libre 2 (now CGM) and all sundry accessories and consumables. Total personal cost since my diagnosis = ZERO! (Obviously during my working life I've paid Tax and National Insurance - can't argue that I'm not getting my monies worth).

[@joannewignall6417]

I’m UK too. Diagnosed 1979 age 7 (now 52). I used to do those urine tests 😂 I’m so grateful to our NHS. Makes you realise how lucky we are financially ….health wise. I’m on the Dexcom G6 and the Omnipod 5 🇬🇧

[@nordwestbeiwest1899]

I`m totally covered 100% from my public insurance as a type 1 diabetic with the T-slim X2 and Dexcom g6 in Germany !

[@ShesDiabetic]

This is wonderful - I'm so so so happy for you!!!!!

[@ProNoober8]

I only own 3 pairs of shoes: Business/Work, Hiking, Casual. Last shoe purchase was over 10 years ago. I consider myself financially comfortable. Once you're over 30 your feet don't really change size anymore like they did in your teens. Apparently being male helps a lot as well: Male privelege: lives life happily and content with only 3 pairs of shoes.

[@ShesDiabetic]

Lol - your male privilege comment has me laughing over here! I think I probably only regularly wear a rotation of 3 pairs of shoes, but you never know when you need that special pair for that special outfit! Lol!

[@xheidio]

Thank you for sharing this! I thought my type 1 cost me $200 a month but after watching your vidoe, I realize that it's so much more! I am also super grateful for the tools we have today since I was diagnosed at 4 in 1977 when we were peeing on a stick to test our levels. Can you imagine?

[@ArtFriendly]

Thanks for breaking it down Andrea! T1D for 28 years. US resident. Insurance is a money-making business. The cost of our medical insurance *premiums* is over $800. Copays, co-insurance, prescriptions are additional. Cannot afford DexCom. Thyroid is the cheapest of meds. Insulin is 80-100+ every 3 months. I usually go without most other meds due to cost. To keep our heads above water is expensive, especially with housing, food, transportation, and chronic medical issues for each family member. Mental health is definitely affected by financial, medical, and relationship stresses. Another family member helps pay for pump supplies which are no longer covered at 100% by our health insurance through employer 😢. I would have to include transportation for myself and another family member for medical appointments, tests, infusions, or hospital stays and missed time at work for T1D, personal care, or mental health. Each person is employed and works hard within our abilities but not sure how long our bodies will hold up. ❤

[@gladysgianni8268]

Andrea, thank you for talking about this under reported issue in our media. Anyone with a chronic condition is struggling to see a doctor and afford meds, lab tests, and other necessary diagnostic procedure. I am fortunate that I fall into the category of ones that can afford,my insurance and cost of medical care. I see and speak with friends and family members that cannot. These are people work at a full time jobs, have homes , and other conservative expenses. They do not go to a doctor, because they cannot afford the costs! It breaks my heart. I love this country, but something’s is broken and it need to be talked about. Thank you for breaking it down as it applies to a lot of chronic conditions.

[@MonicaArepaPower]

Great video. We moved to the US from Europe and to be honest I regretted the move for a long time until I just put in my head that dealing with T1D in the US is not the same as in Europe and I either had to decide to deal with it or leave the US. We decided to stay in the US, but it is so hard, my brother cant afford the insurance yet and right now he is on Toujeo, Humalog, and Libre 3. Looking for manufactures coupons is what have save us so far but still struggling and scare to be without insurance. When we were looking it was at least 1200 US Dollars per month to be insured.

[@stephanieloznicka6335]

Andrea. Thank you for your video. I am a 63 y/o female that has had Type 1 since I was 11. So, a total of 52 years. I remember the days of Irvine testing to check blood sugar and that was in 1971. DM. Is a very expensive disease and I have spent a ton of money over the years caring for myself. I am blessed that I have insurance and a good healthcare team. I am also a nurse and worked in home health for a few years. It is suppressing how many people have to choose between groceries or medications. I wish everyone had access to the medication and things they need to have a better level of care and quality of life. Keep up the good work and thank you. I love your channel and May God bless and keep you.

[@CookwithmeinAmerica]

Hello.can i ask youba quedtion?

[@Glamdring196]

When I was on my parents’ insurance, I remember going to the pharmacy to pick up my insulin for the first time and it was somewhere around $560 co-pay for 2 vials and my jaw dropped. Absolutely stunned me on the spot

[@ShesDiabetic]

OMG I BET!!! I'd be like someone get a scraper because I'm floored!!!

[@hyena280]

Just to stay alive. That's so sad/ridiculous. It should be free, like anywhere else in the world.

[@locke103]

Had an insurance snafu once, and twice was charged $200 for a vial of... some slow acting insulin, I can't remember the name anymore. My prescriptions change on a goddamn fucking whim... But when I saw that? Nope. I didn't have that money. I let DKA kick in, this was thankfully before the $150 ER copays became a thing.

[@graemewallace1101]

£0.00 in the UK for as many Libre Freestyle 2 Sensors as i need, Novorapid Cartridges, Tresiba Cartridges, x2 NovoPen 6, needles, tests strips, Doctors appointments, optician, blood work. Zero, unless you count the fact i pay tax on my monthly wage, but the whole point of everyone paying means that when you do need healthcare you have access to it. Been Type 1 for 12.5 years now. Never had any mental health issues i have to say, yes its crap but no point in crying over it in my opinion. Maybe that's partly cause i got diagnosed at the age of 28 so i got to have my youth without having to deal with it. Keep up the great work.

[@chammiequeen7838]

I saw your title. I’ve had type1 for over 40 years and just wanted to give you support.

[@ShesDiabetic]

Thank you so so much my fellow Diabuddy!!!!

[@ddenv]

As an unisured T1D I agree that it's definitely expensive! Been type 1 for 49 years - the cost difference from then to now is crazy, although the quality of insulins and testing products that are available now are amazing. I finally got a cgm (Dexcom G7) March of this year, and although expensive, it's a game changer for me! The reason that I'm unisured is that I'm self-employed (since 1990). Back then a months supply of insulin and test strips was

[@scooter_b123]

Thank you for this video. I'm a single parent and a type 1 diabetic and I'm fully insured. I pay a little more than you every year and it really is ridiculous what they charge for people to stay alive. It's absurd.

[@ShesDiabetic]

A parent of a t1d kiddo - now you people are the angels of our life!! I completely agree - absurd - the perfect word to describe it!!

[@lisat453]

At present, I am uninsured as I am my mother’s full time caregiver (dementia). My state and local hospital system offers a program I qualify for regarding dr visits and most Rx’s. Nothing qualifies me for a pump and, after tons of research, Freestyle Libre 3 offers CGMs at $75/mth. I definitely take advantage of mental health visits. Nothing covers a podiatrist and I pay an outside policy for vision. It can be a rather depressing at best. I’m 56 yr old female with 46 years under my belt as T1D. THANK YOU for these videos 😊I’ve followed you for years…pls do cost comparison from your experience having lived abroad 😊

[@alliemay6076]

Thank you for making this video. It’s so interesting to see how different the cost of everything is where you live. I live in Canada, and so I’ve never once had to think about the cost of blood draws and endo appointments. I’m curious what everything would cost if it was totally out of pocket. I’m always a little fascinated when I see TikTok’s about what it costs in the states to have a baby or get surgery

[@randyescanuelas1565]

Thank you for your insight on this! I was really trying to get an idea of the costs for everything, I am currently fostering a child who has type 1 luckily she has everything covered as long as she is in the system, but I'm just looking forward down the road when she's not longer in the system & would have to pay out of pocket for a lot of these things.

[@michaelt.8956]

Well done, well done! 👏 👍🏽

[@ShesDiabetic]

Thank you!!

[@jasmcats]

Would you be able to do another video of what it would cost if you had no insurance.. it's mind-blowing.

[@ForgottenCovers]

It's so nice to read that at least some of the people in the comments here have their cost of care covered fully in their country ❤☺

[@ShesDiabetic]

I know...it actually makes me so so so so happy 🥹

[@Abber64]

Thanks for posting and this really makes feel so fortunate that I live in Canada where healthcare is covered as well as diabetic supplies. All Dr appointments and Endo appointments are 100 % covered by the Provincial Health Care Plan. Due to my income, I do not qualify for provincial coverage for my diabetic supplies, but I get 80% coverage for all of this through my job, and the insulin pumps are covered 100% by the provincial government. It is unbelievable that a Country like the United States has no health care plan for its citizens. Hopefully that will change one year.

[@joeclifford9242]

I am extremely lucky that my Medicare part B (DME) pays for my Tandem pump and supplies my Dexcom CGM and my insulin and test strips. I do have to pay my part for Medicare and my secondary insurance but I would have to pay that if I didn't have Diabetes! I have lived with Diabetes for 40 years! Thank you so much Andrea for your videos!

[@brucebrotman]

I'm on Medicare part A, B, D and G. It's still $5000 a year, but at least my max out of pocket is $226.😁

[@nikosdogas2819]

Hey Andrea. Let you know that living in Greece , a country of Europe, with type 1 diabetes the cost of insulin pumb , insulin ingections , CGM (Libre 2 or Dexcome G6) and Dr appointments covered 100% from my public insurance.

[@ShesDiabetic]

It really is astonishing how different things can be in different parts of the world. Truly I am happy for you and glad that this is available to you guys. Bravo to your country for taking care of you, and not only that, but taking care of you to such an excellent standard of care! 🥹❤️

[@richardbeck5288]

What percentage of your income is paid in taxes per year?

[@traciedye9633]

@@richardbeck5288 usually way less than insurance premiums and co-pays Americans pay on top of their taxes. I'm not scared to call an ambulance if needed because of the cost, I don't have to worry about having money to cover "out of pocket expenses" not covered by insurance(??), going to the wrong doctor that "doesn't accept" my insurance or is out of network. My life expectancy in a country with universal healthcare is much higher than in the US.

[@verachamie5697]

Sorry for jumping in, but this cost may reduce taxes paid only if you can prove having expensing $12,000 or more

[@verachamie5697]

In the US

[@friedelpas5637]

When I saw this, I'm so happy to live in Europe. I live in Belgium and most of the costs are covered by public insurance. Especialy all insuline cost, CGM, pump, pump suplies, ... Docter cost is a small amount and tests too. Desinfection material is for my self, as well the tensospray I use to better fit the things on my body. And of course things to increase suggar when becoming to low is also for my self. That aspect is my biggest cost. When put that all together, together with the aquarius that I use to increase suggar in case of low, I come to a cost of less then 400 euro per year. About 100 euro for the part that I have to pay myself for doctor visits and lab tests, is payed back every year by the insurance of my employer, so real cost is less then 300 euro. The diabetes liga did a lot work to got such a good support. They calculated that when not covering that much of diabetes care, the impact of the high number off complications as result of diabetes would cost the community many much more then when covering this cost. So there is a scientific base that it is cheaper for the community to provid this care then not providing this care. I have no need tot mental health support. Possible also because there is such good care here.

[@sharlas8030]

Excellent mssg. I have lived with T1D in the USA since 1983, and have had to make sure I secured excellent insurance through an employer all these years. I am very expensive, sadly. I worry what will happen to me financially when I retire, though I do not believe that my condition is anyone else's responsibility. I may have to go back to mdi and finger sticks. The idea is depressing.

[@marionkirkham8576]

Canadian Type 1 diabetic since 1970: Only some pumps are covered by provincial healthcare, at least in BC. I pay full price for all my diabetic supplies until I reach the annual Fair Pharmacare deduction limit, which I rarely do. Then about 75% of my meds are covered, since some diabetic prescriptions are covered but many only partially.

[@dianebinns9905]

FYI: Anything you need you need to keep you health. Food, Wipes, Bandages Diapers, Shoes, Socks Even exercise tapes are tax deductible 7 percent. Just do the long form tax time. Yes Keep taxes for 7 years!! This also applies to people that are gluten free. Keep your receipts! Also even if you have a co payment, but it on your taxes.

[@ShesDiabetic]

OMG thank you SO much for this info!!! Calling my accountant now!!!

[@user-ip6yw4zz9v]

So all u noted is so true , cost is extreme & since I’ve gone on Medicare, which part B doesn’t cover under durable medical so it comes under Part D, which is covered under specific insurance companies so differently, especially state to state & county to county, so u must stay diligent as each yr approaches & do your research! U use the term diabetic pretty often, my physician taught me to change my understanding from the word diabetic to I have Diabetes, I know it just a word, but connotation can make a difference, diabetic could mean the disease controls u, but diabetes could mean u control this disease, it’s helped me keep the hole process in perspective & it’s got me through the pitfalls in life. I was diagnosed with/ type 1 in 1967 & now 66 yrs later retired from two demanding occupations, one being EMS I’ve survived & still volunteering w/Fire- EMS, ya gotta stay active & plan the future for success!! Regards, JG

[@robynwilliams5928]

I pay 300.00 per month copay for my insulin pumps. I pay 169.00 per month copay for my insulin. My Dexcom G6 is considered durable medical equipment and I do not have a copay. I pay roughly another 65.00 for other supplies not covered by insurance. I pay 80.00 copay’s for my endocrinologist appointments, and 50.00 for primary care where I go over bloodwork. Then 150.00 every 3-6 months copay for bloodwork. It’s so expensive to be a type 1 diabetic.

[@EverGameStudios]

What about the cost of insurance itself? also need to tell people what the actual cost of living with type 1 without insurance is, as many people in the U.S. still don't have it. when I first got it, I didn't have insurance, and it cost me around 5k a month, the prices they charge for insulin pens and such without insurance are just ridiculous.

[@ShesDiabetic]

I mention the cost of my insurance is $375 per quarter which is actually astoundingly low I think. I'm lucky to have insurance. Period. It's a luxury and that sentence in and of itself makes me want to puke! Most Americans can't even cover an emergency cost of $400...so how are they surviving with t1d...and I mean just surviving, not even thriving, which is what an individual with t1d should be set up to do (in an ideal world, which is maybe my problem to hope for that fair world) I'm not surprised at all that things were costing you 5k per month which would add up to 60k per year...madness!!!! Thank you so much for sharing here, it's valuable information to add to the conversation.

[@EverGameStudios]

@@ShesDiabetic also cost of ambulance, got dka once, ambulance alone for 5 mile drive to the hospital was a 2000 dollar bill. The all medical system in the u.s. is broken, one of the reasons I'm planning on moving to the u.k.

[@thorritz8520]

Andrea, thanks so much for doing this. Ur averages are close to what I'm paying overall. Recently I switched over to Medicare plus keep my private insurance. Between the two I'm paying about $665 a month for the 2 insurances. Expensive but it's the best of best coverage for my needs. For brief time there was a question if I'd have my insulin covered. I thought well with Federal government $35 per bottle I was going to be safe. Nope if one does have Medicare supplemental it's not $35 but total cost which was hundreds of dollars per month. Long story short I was covered but not with humalog insulin I've used for over 40 years. I can only use novolog insulin. A bit scary to be forced to use a new type but I have no choice and I realized I am a lucky one. I have many friends who are forced to either forgo the medications they need or take partial doses. It's truly sad this occurs in our nation. Thanks again for sharing this as I've wondered what others pay.

[@kevinjohnston8100]

I'm shocked. How do compare the difference in diabetes care between the USA and the UK, where health care is paided through taxation. Which in your opinion is best or which do you prefer as you have experienced both. I'd love to hear your thoughts on this. Hope you all are well and have a lovely Christmas Andrea.

[@rogerlyngeng6903]

In Norway.. when reaching a total of around 250$ the rest of the year is free,and that covers abt everything. Had my t1 for 39 yrs now, and for me the best thing happening has to be libre 2 and tresiba insulin.

[@Lobstrique]

the cost of shoes is something i've never heard other diabetics talk about!! i'm SO PICKY about my shoes, and the comfort is always the priority, that's why my shoes are often not pretty, and it's hard to explain sometimes why i choose less elegant shoes for comfort, cause uncomfortable but pretty shoes is something people are used to

[@ShesDiabetic]

I HEAR YOU!!! And I'm over here trying to find the pretty comfy ones...quite the difficult pursuit let me tell ya! GAH!!! I feel like shoes and all those sort of incidental side items that are associated with t1d and the complexities of our bodies do really add a significant cost to the overall equation!!

[@Atrus999]

I knew it would be a lot, but I can't believe it's that much to take care of T1D in the US. That blows my mind. Has it made you consider moving back to the UK Andrea?

[@ShesDiabetic]

It hasn't because I want to be near my family and that is priceless, but my oh my what a tradeoff. It's just so different here I can hardly believe it.

[@johncook3364]

Australia is maybe the cheapest place to have diabetes in developed countries, Insulin - $30 every 7 mths, I use about 45 units/day. Blood strips - $15 per 100 strips. Infusion line/Reservior $25 per mth. Medtronic G4 - $37 per mth. Medtronic pump - last one $8 500 paid by health insurance which is $200/mth. Alcohol swabs - have not used in 40 years. Diabetic educator - two appointments per year, $100. Podiatrist - once per year $50. Endo - 2 appointments per year $200. in the 1980s the government started the National Diabetes Supply Scheme, most of the above are co payments, NDSS pays the rest Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme - most drugs are in this scheme, a script is $30, for insulin the total cost is about $260 for the 7 mths. Medicare - all medical services are covered, Endo is $175, you get back from Medicare about $80. This is in Australian dollars.

[@adelarsen9776]

What about changing to the Carnivore Diet ? You'll get better and save money.

[@agatawestfalewska9116]

Hi Andrea, thank you very much for another good and interesting material. In Poland, people over 26 years have to buy an insulin pump themselves. We have a partial refund for pump suplies or CGM like Libre 2, Dexcom G6 or even Eversense. I pay about 30% of the market price for insulin in the pharmacy. It's not rosy, but looking at solutions in other countries I can't complain. ❤

[@hyena280]

Wow! If I had to even pay a dollar for a blood draw I'd be so shocked! (I live in Canada)

[@ShesDiabetic]

I know...it's so wildly different and strange!! But I'm so very happy for you that you have nationalized healthcare!! This is excellent!!!

[@tjeffdobbs]

Hey, thanks for sharing and thanks for realizing that there are other people around you maybe worse off than you. I don’t hear or see that very often at all in this country. Anyway, I have a broken hip and the ball that’s supposed to be on top of the femur is completely gone. The orthopedic surgeon wrote destroyed on the print out of the X-ray. I have this and have had this for several years. That’s how I found out I was type 1 diabetic. Whether I was so active it didn’t show up or drs didn’t find it, who knows. But that’s my first cost. I can only hobble around when I used to bike 5-15 miles everyday. Anyway, disables and cannot work. I’m 57 and should still be able to work. And I had a great job. Excluding those losses, $1,045.00 per month should be my cost. I say should be because I’m on a fixed income and only qualify for Medicare. That means, no eye care included and I don’t have enough money left for that or for podiatrist. Almost lost my left foot this year for that one. I don’t use test strips because it’s $125 per month. So without rambling on, you see my point. I had a friend die of a heart attack because he was worse off financially than I am. And I’m sure there are more than I can count that are worse off than I am. Self care is kind of the first to go. I blew through most of my savings trying to do it right. You also did leave off one of the biggest expenses. Food. It’s much much much more expensive to eat the way we have to eat and frankly, everyone should eat a little more like we are supposed to. Plus, if you’re like me, cooking is a have to so that everything doesn’t turn to sugar. And for the question, why don’t I have medicade or why don’t I get it for free? I make just enough on Social Security, which I contributed generously to for more than 40, that I can get very little help if any, but, I don’t make enough to pay for being type 1 diabetic and to eat and keep a low income housing roof over my head. I’m not venting or trying to over share. I just wanted you to see where this country has gotten to. The politicians seem to be the worst offenders to the healthcare mess and each one that try’s to make it better, makes it even worse. I also can tell you that I’d be in better shape if I still lived in Ohio or Kentucky than in Illinois. Illinois appears to be one of the worst to live in and have this disease. So you are correct about that too. Now if I’m missing some service or something out there for any of the care I should be doing, especially eye care. Vision is becoming questionable, please tell me. But I hope others share their real numbers because this is the first and only time if said how hopeless it really can be. The solution, if they ever come up with one, probably won’t happen till long after I’ve been forgotten. Thanks for sharing and making me think as you always do.

[@hyena280]

I had to see an eye doctor - she told me that her class had a special trip to the US to see what untreated diabetes looks like. We rarely have untreated cases in Canada. Yay freedom.

[@donweintraub3310]

Thanks for the informative video Andrea. I live in Tel Aviv with socialized health care. Pump and CGM are free of charge, as are monthly consumables. Insulin and meds are covered 90%, but for those with chronic diseases the maximum monthly out of pocket is the equivalent of $100. I do the Endo/dietician/nurse in the same visit, which costs $5. Any blood work or tests that I want/need are free of charge. My family has been thinking about returning to the U. S., but being self-employed, absorbing the cost of insurance, deductibles, co-pays and the like make it a financial non-starter. Maybe in another 10 years when I'm eligible for Medicare...

[@prawn835]

I myself, I’m in Australia, our insulin here cost me $7.30 for a months supply, all my prescriptions except the insulin are capped at $6.20, my dexcom G6 is free as well as the transmitter. my insulin pump consumables are capped at $10.90 for a box of 10 cartridges and $13.90 for a box of 10 infusion sets my insulin pump was covered by my insurance that is about $110 a month, all my doctors visits and endocrinologist as well as specialist care is free so for me. My breakdown per month would be about $130 as some of my prescriptions come in a three month supply. I do pay for my mental health treatment which is $195 per fortnight, but that is when I require it. Thank you for the breakdown and Merry Christmas

[@anumaslam4357]

Hey , I just watched your video and I must say that it was really informative and well-made. I was wondering if I could help you edit your videos and also highly engaging thumbnails which will help your video to reach to a wider audience .

[@OutdoorFreedomDk]

I think I use 300 -350 usd on my type1 insulin in a year. THAT'S ALL ! Here in Denmark all doctors, also dietetic specialist, are free. Also all the blood and urine testes & Libre Link is free. And the needles for my insulin pens. I could also get a insulin pump for free if I want. But here in Dk we also pay high taxes.

[@marinakiell1069]

I’m surprised that last year & this year u haven’t done your Holiday Gift Guide Ideas, 2 weeks ago on Saturday Dec 2 I thought there was gonna be a Saturday post

[@ShesDiabetic]

I know...I'm so sad too! There's been a lot going on this year, and last and I just haven't had the time to order all the products and then whittle them down and review them properly. I take product recommendations so seriously. Perhaps a little too seriously lol! I want to get back on top of it for next year for sure...!!!!!!! I should probably start now...😂 If you have any recommendations I'm all ears!!! You always have such good ideas!

[@Atrus999]

@@ShesDiabetic I have a recommendation if you end up looking for products again at some point. I know you've reviewed travel bags in the past, but when I was diagnosed I bought a "Luxja Diabetic Supplies Travel Case" from Amazon and it's been SO helpful to me. I'm sure there are others like it, but I use this case as my daily driver when I'm bringing diabetic supplies to work and if I need them around town. It's not huge so it fits easily into a backpack and I'm able to keep enough supplies in it to last a long time. I can even fit my Freestyle Optium Neo glucose monitor in it along with everything else by removing one of the pockets which has velcro on the back. It's a product I'd give my highest five star rating to.

[@marinakiell1069]

I’m thinking these for your Omnipod. kzbin.info/www/bejne/nqHIen6riNl0q7Msi=pfQBRnShMgCLWGyS I’m Not diabetic but I’m kinda pseudo-preparing by watching of videos so that if something were to happen 5, 10, 15 years down the line etc I would already be familiar with stuff so that if anything were to happen I can fall back on things I already know about

[@glockjiunkie]

I haven’t broke it down for the insulin pump and cgm yet just recently started on these devices, before I was on insulin pens and spending 1500$ every 90 days just on insulin then another 500 for needles and test strips… Ridiculous. Big reason why I switched was cost. Thanks for the videos I watched a bunch of them to learn about the tandem.

[@DutchCarnivore]

Netherlands: 100% covered by semi-public insurance, apart from yearly copay of say 350. So that totals to 12x€150 + €350 = €2150 ($2300). This includes insulin pump and CGM. There is however a cap on certain accessories like test strips, so I'd guess that results in an additional €500 a year. Yearly eye and feetcare seems overkill to me, especially when young and with well controlled blood glucose (say A1C below 6%). If I had to pay for that with my own money I would only do that like every 5 year.

[@Gwkz743]

Thanks for sharing this! I’m in the US as well and our numbers are comparable. The only thing I was a little surprised is the $1k on the endo visit. How come that high? Is it a special endo or do they run special tests? I only pay $45-60 copay visits for specialists, that’s why I’m curious!

[@user-dp6dt3jd2v]

Hello , what insulin are you using in the pump? I was using in Lyumjev but i change to humalog because of burn

[@brucebrotman]

Wow! After you broke this down by the month, I had just realized I'm not really saving while on Medicare! G*d bless the US of F**king A! 😮😢

[@ShesDiabetic]

Wow - super interesting!!! Gahhhhh why oh why is the system like this!!!??? I wanted to break it down for the video but also becuase I was super curious to see myself how it all added up and where everything was coming from. It shocked me in a lot of ways!!

[@brucebrotman]

Actually, my insulin is free because I'm using a Generic Brand and my pills from other meds are free, but still I'm dishing close to $500 a month for A, B, D and G plan! 😢

[@jonjonjon888]

My Medtronic pump supplies are $2500 a year for DME deductible, $700 a month ins premium, $36 for 3 month supply novolog, $36 for 3 month supply for test strips, and i never thought about the other stuff. On 11/13 my poor baby 7 year old girl was diagnosed with type 1. We dont know what the total for her Dexcom and Omnipod supplies are yet.

[@carlfearby1456]

in the UK I pay £0 and im on Libre 2, but, I paid £67,000 TAX and National Insurance last year, healthcare costs no matter where you live, and the NHS her is damaged, and our taxation is stupid

[@garycroft8213]

In the UK here, my daughter (age 12) has the same setup as you (dexcom, omnipod 5). We pay £0, however its not really free because as workers we pay national insurance as workers. Both my wife and I are higher rate tax payers so our NI is over £4k each per year, however if we didn't work this wouldn't effect our daughters care.

[@ShesDiabetic]

This is super interesting and an important part of the equation. I know ab lot of people refer to nationalized healthcare as 'free' but it's really not, so what you explain above is a really great point. And I also appreciate that addendum that if you didn't work this wouldn't affect your daughter's care - that is such a beautiful statement, and I wish everyone could have this peace of mind. But I'm so so happy that this is the case for you guys. Thrilled ❤️❤️❤️ Thank you for sharing this!

[@garycroft8213]

I guess the philosophy of the NHS is that healthcare is a human right, "free at the point of need" and so your healthcare shouldn't be inferior if you are poor or can't work. Reading more into the US health system it was an accident that occurred during WW2 labour shortages and pay cap's, so employers started offering non cash benefits like healthcare to attract workers and this stuck ever since. In hindsight would anyone really want to build a system this way?

[@ch17ly]

It's crazy u have such high overheads even with the best insurance. It makes me very happy that I'm from Australia.

[@ShesDiabetic]

I know....the whole system seems upside down and inside out!

[@locke103]

I was a bit thrown off when you mentioned you see a podiatrist... I'm a type 2 for close to nineteen years now, I NEVER went to one. I've never been referred to one. For all intents and purposes, I don't know nearly as much as I should.

[@davebiggins58]

Andrea, as someone who has lived and worked in both the UK and the US, can you comment on the 'pros' of the US system?

[@davidp9820]

Around what did you pay for the same items when you were in the UK? I've heard several people in England mention just about everything medical was free.

[@farhanafridi6079]

How much the total cost of insulin pump and it monthly cost i m type 1 i need it

[@davidp9820]

I'm in the US and my Pharmacy Insurance won't cover OmniPod and per OmniPod, they can't use/bill Medical Insurance.

[@jenskaufmann3353]

In Germany you have around 300-1000€ for public insurance which is ~50% deducted from the income and ~50% payed on top from the employer. You would need to pay a 10€ for every insulin box but usually have everything else covered: doctors and medical supplies including cgm and pumps. Even though receiving coverage of the desired technical medical supplies can be a hazzle depending on the chosen insurance organization.

[@friedelpas5637]

That deduction of income is not only for the public insurance of course. It cost something to the community, but even then it cost less then a insurance in other circumstances. Insurance is all about risk, when you can spread the risk over more people, the cost per people reduce and insurance become cheaper. With such a public insurance the cost is spread over all inhabitants. When taking such insurance as individual then they calculate the risk as taken by you only. When paid by the company they spread the risk over the number of employees for cost per person. So those options are always much more expensive! It is proven that being poor and not able to pay basis costs is a very important risk to become criminal. In the US is the cost per taxpayer for enforcement against crime about the same as in Europe for total social security and enforcement against crime together. So both options cost the taxpayer the same. Question is what is the most humane of both. In my eyes I find the European approach the most humane choice.

[@albertopoli82]

In Italy the Helcare System provides all Freestyle Libre and Omnipode 5, if the doctor certifies you need, completely for free. No one should spend a lot of money just to stay alive!

[@osvaldoalvarez1926]

For a lot of people the IRS sucks, but the health plan is good, i pay for 1 vial of fast acting insulin $20.00 for the Tandem i paid $900 when they sold it and NOTHING for the supplies per 3 months.

[@adcatman]

My Goodness. That's shocking. Take Care. Andy...

[@ShesDiabetic]

Gah, I know, isn't it!!! It shocked me too...!

[@friedelpas5637]

When I tell at the dinner the cost of living with diabetes in the US is, my 14 years old daughter concluded that it was cheaper to by an ticket to here and start a new live here with diabetes then staying with diabetes in the US.

[@rexhowells7015]

Andrea, About shoes, they may not work for you, but I have found hoka shoes very good . These shoes have great cushioning under foot, and if you need orthotics, work well with them. They should be less expensive where you are, as Australian dollar nearly half American dollar .

[@ShesDiabetic]

OMG! I just got a pair of Hoka's and LOVE THEM!! I'm wearing them right now!! Such a great suggestion! Thank you Rex!! And I'm so glad they work so well for you too!!!

[@krakraichbinda]

Holy Crow, that bites!

[@redaleta]

Yearly cost estimate $27,600 - insurance $3000 deductible, usually meet by 2nd quarter $592 - insulin $217 - insulin 1st quarter $125 - per quarter the rest of the year $900 - G6 Transmitter $844 - Tslim cartridge $3492 - - Infusion set $873 per quarter

[@ShesDiabetic]

WOWZA! Thank you so so much for sharing your figures here!!!!

[@The1JBanks]

Mines about 7k a year with no CGMs at all. With CGMs would be even more. Thanks Obama care. Make too much to get a subsidy and the health insurance is shit anyways. Frustrating when you are trying to start a family and keep a roof over your head. Then you wonder why so many of us drink because it costs so much to live and its depressing because you will never get rid of it. Been Type 1 for 16 years now, I'm 32. Don't see it getting much better.

[@SwissPGO]

The health insurance situation in the US is one of the reasons I have never really considered migrating (and joining my girlfriend) in the US even though as a PhD scientist I probably would have had a good employer and good coverage. We decided to develop our careers (and family) in Switzerland and 30 years later I'm still happy with that choice. For those willing to cut costs: The dexcom 6 transmitter's battery can be replaced if you are willing to do some fine mechanical intervention on it. It's a shame dexcom did not designed it with user replaceable batteries - but that would have removed a recurrent income stream for them, and of course corporate finances come before patient finances... On other cost factor to consider is life insurance- even though my HBA1c values are around 6 and I'm not having any complications, getting a life insurance as a T1D will cost you an arm and a leg.... My wife had to take the largest part of this insurance to buy our properties.

[@ShesDiabetic]

Wow that is so so so interesting about the Transmitter Battery! I never knew that!!! And life insurance...me oh my that's a whole other road decisions and madness it sounds like...wow! Za! One day I really would love to spend some time in Switzerland and see how the culture operates on the whole. It's a notoriously happy and content country of people (from what I read) and I'd love to steep in that and take notes.

[@SwissPGO]

@@ShesDiabetic I'd be happy to help out, visit things if you guys come to Switzerland. I like to hike in the mountains.

[@farhanafridi6079]

I m from Pakistan i diagnosis diabetic type 1 from last 1.5 year and there was still not available insulin pump i m very worrying about this that when develop our country medication type 1 very less there and govt should not focus on that

[@lunchboxinsulinboy]

true story, I rarely use alcohol swabs, been at it for about 35 years and stopped very early on with the swabbing. Not a single bad effect yet, so i think it's a bit of an exaggeration to think disinfecting is absolutely necessary.

[@ShesDiabetic]

Interesting!! Thank you for sharing this!

[@lunchboxinsulinboy]

@@ShesDiabetic yeah, I understand it's not for everyone, but it's always so easy for me to inject when out and about unless I'm dirty or sweaty I just draw and inject. I don't even remember the last time I swabbed a vial either.

[@subohm822]

No pump here. But I pay about 680 a month for just my diabetes supplies and health insurance, that's not counting the 2 inhalers I'm on or doctors appointments. 🙄

[@ShesDiabetic]

Oh my goodness gracious that is a HUGE amount of money!!!!!!!! 😳😓

[@jimf1450]

There seems to be changes for cgms & omni moving from durable to prescription. I work for Whirlpool & have their more expensive plan bc I'm diabetic. My insurance for covered preferred insulin, test strips, insulin pumps & supplies covered 100% not subject to co pay or deductible. Cgms covered @ 80% Quarterly doctor visits, annual eye exam & 2 yearly podiatrist 100%. My insurance has special diabetic value benefits, guess I'm pretty lucky but I have had better. Coverage like mine should be the minimum.

[@user-lc4qu8vu9r]

No pump for me! With my insurance, it would cost me $4500 to get started with TSlim, or about $240/month for Omnipod.

[@ShesDiabetic]

Oh my gosh I am so sorry it's so expensive. I just hate that the cost makes it prohibitive for people...this just shouldn't be the way...ever...!!

[@gadilewkonya]

Hi, love your channel... my 17-year-old young boy (type 1 for the last 5 years (Minimed 780) and we are paying ~ 200$ yearly let's say 500$ just in case I missed something We don't have any spatial insurance. live out the state we live in Israel, If you don't have insurance you die in the USA. I saw the "Purple Hearts" movie (you should too) I compared it, an EpiPen costs in Israel 10$ for a pair of injections in the USA ~500$ yes, it is better to be rich and healthy :)

[@ShesDiabetic]

I'm so glad your son has everything he needs, this is so important! I'm to familiar with the 'Purple Hearts' movie - I'm going to check that out - thank you for sharing this with me!

[@sophiomaglakelidze1624]

can you please describe what kind of feeling is when you have low , my 5 years son is diagnosed and … i want to know what he feels when he is telling me “mom i feel week “, please let me know

[@ShesDiabetic]

Of course. Weakness is certainly associated with lows, along with sometimes feeling shaky, slightly confused or slow to react, tired, almost like your fading out a bit. Does your son have a CGM? Like a Dexcom? If possible I would absolutely encourage you to get him on a CGM as soon as possible because that will let you see what his blood sugar is and give you alarms if it's heading low so you can get ahead of it by treating it before these above symptoms start to emerge. I hope this helps!

[@sophiomaglakelidze1624]

thank you 🙏we have dexcom from day one and i can not imagine how hard it could be before for all T1D and caregivers, i love your videos all of them are very useful and you have something so natural you feel so close ! you are blessed and chosen same as my son, he is super special… i believe future will be more amazing and there comes soon sell therapy its in god’s hand !

[@lozetchells9164]

Thanks Andrea. Makes me appreciate the UK NHS so much. Yeah we only get the second tier CGMs, and we get a consultant appointment a year if we're lucky, but boy it could be so much worse. Another reason I love how Biden has taken steps to cap insulin prices. You guys are ripped off, our insulin is not only free to us but the NHS pays just ~£30 for 5 pens/vials of the best insulins out there.

[@jonathanmcalroy8640]

I have a Dexcom g6 on prescription. And I see my Endo every 6 months..

[@lozetchells9164]

@@jonathanmcalroy8640 I believe most of us only get the choice of the Dexcom One, Libre 2 or glucoRx. Because of the regional rules, I only get the libre 2. I SHOULD get to see my consultant every 6 months but my last 2 appointments were 11 months apart. They're busy.

[@user-wi9fk4bo6h]

buy custom insoles for shoes and swap them between shoes

[@brucehanson9976]

Were do you live ? I live in Lynnwood Washington and I pay a lot less then you do.

[@ShesDiabetic]

I'm in New Jersey 😅

[@MonicaArepaPower]

Unfortunately the US is still in diapers when compared to Europe with regards to dealing with T1D. In Europe in most countries the GSM is covered by the government, and insulin price out of pocket is way less for example: my brother uses Toujeo and in Europe we will get 5 insulin pens for 50 Euros out of pocket but with insurance is only 4 Euros for 5 pens VS in here in the US 1 pen of Toujeo is 250 Dollars out of pocket!. But if you try the Sanofi coupon is $35 dollars per month supply. A box of pen needles in Europe 7 Euros in here the same box of BD pen needles 4mmx32g at Walgreens 45 Dollars.

[@not_in_the_know]

❤❤

[@ShesDiabetic]

💜 💙

[@irisbraun4171]

I collect the bills from the pharmacy Sometimes I have the feeling that I only spend money at the pharmacy and yes, I get a 5% discount on non-prescription things I have been paying the endocrinologist privately since 2020 We have a system in Austria that we call 2 classes of medicine but if we are honest there are also 3 classes depending on what you can finance In my 23 years It's crazy what we have to spend I have a feeling this has been bothering you, especially since you moved

[@ShesDiabetic]

That's so interesting what you shared about the 3 class - I do know what you mean. In the UK I witnessed some of that where people use the NHS on the whole, but there are others who pay to see a doctor privately and feel they get more directly the care they need and in an expedited manner. I personally never felt the need to go private in the UK, but I certainly understand the dilemma.

[@worldkub6404]

I live in Germany: my costs are less than 315 € in the whole year We don’t understand the people over the ocean, who fought against Obamacare

[@ShesDiabetic]

I'm so happy for you...my goodness what a difference.

[@67Jimbob]

This is scandalous. Thank you for drawing much-needed attention to it. I think a big reason it escapes scrutiny in the US is that costs vary so wildly from state to state, from carrier to carrier, and from plan to plan. I also think that is the way the American healthcare sector wants it. Forgive me if I sound cynical, but I've had the condition since 1974. While I'm very grateful to have the treatment and technology to survive for almost 50 years with T1D, it's hard to shake the feeling that I'm a cash cow. We need more detailed public discussion about the bottom-line costs we bear to survive. People in many other countries have access to the same closed-loop system for zero out-of-pocket. The profit motive in American medicine is supposed to result in the best care at the lowest cost, but it sure feels like it's just an old-fashioned shakedown.

[@nanettesilas6062]

Oh I’m right there also plus I can’t work I get shots in my eyes every 7 weeks plus I’m on moujaro injections , I’m on disability Medicare . I will get a break next year when I turn 65 . I’m always in a hole and I worry daily about this . But I try to take one day at a time

[@nanettesilas6062]

Also on cam and insulin pump

[@Diorella_scent]

You need to move to Australia ❤

[@marinakiell1069]

Was this video filmed before 11/14 or did you highlight/dye your hair again? 😂

[@ShesDiabetic]

You got it! This one took much longer to edit!! 😂😅

[@sharonchi4903]

Thank to my country has Nation health insurance my son pays 30 USD per month for health insurance. every time he goes to clinic he pays 15 usd for 3 months whatever he's Medication . he is t 1

[@jimarrington2396]

Thank you for your channel and the reviews and information you provide. Even us "old timers" need encouragement and information. Living with T1D without the tools needed, is like being handed a bag of parts for the remote control to your health. Hopefully, you figure out how to put it together and use it before your body falls apart. I have been a T1D since the summer of 1968. Over the years the cost went up dramatically. The last year before I went on Medicare and purchased a supplement for my wife and I was unbelievable! Insurance cost alone was $24,000 with a $7000 deductible. The thoughts of a pump or CGM was a dream. By the grace of God I stayed healthy with no other major health problems or side effects taking injections and occasionally checking my blood sugar level. I always stayed aware of what I ate, drank, activity and how I felt. Most of my adult life I maintained an a1C, which was never heard of prior to the 1990's, of 7 to 8.5. When I went on Medicare I had a great endo doctor. I turned 65 in October of 2020. By January of 2021 I was on the Dexcom G6 tied in with the Tandem T-slim X2 pump. My cost is only the annual deductible of $240 (now). Pump, insulin and CGM are all considered durable medical equipment. My aiC's are now 5.8 and my doctors notes all state well controlled T1D. I am sure the pump and CGM are making a difference in my life and all diabetics should have access to excellent health care. (It would save money in hospital and medical costs.) I would love to loose the tubes and the cut shirt pockets to hold my pump, but the OMNIPOD 5 is considered a prescription drug not DME. What's the difference? My RX plan does not cover the OmniPod. Until something changes I will have to keep the tubes!

[@russellseaton2014]

You are beating me by 10 years on having diabetes. July 1978 for me. But you are wrong with this statement: "an a1C, which was never heard of prior to the 1990's". A1c tests have been around since I was diagnosed. I don't recall what my first A1c were when first diagnosed in the late 1970s. But I do recall going to the KU Medical Center in the Kansas City suburbs during the 1980s and getting the A1c results mailed to me a week later. Sort of a highlight of going to the endocrinologist every three months.

[@jimarrington2396]

@@russellseaton2014 i Don't remember A1c'numbers in the 1980's. I had health issues with my wife and one of my son's in those years. I only went to the doctor when I had to for my pharmacy prescriptions. Why I survived this type of care other than by the grace of God I don't know. This was not a good way to take care of myself.

[@Nadineperry1]

Its so sad my health insurance is 420 a month

[@ShesDiabetic]

GAh!!!! Just SO MUCH!!!!

[@babytigtig3795]

Are considering having a child with T1D?

[@alexandre67]

Yes, there is an increased risk for a woman with type 1 diabetes to have children who also develop diabetes. The risk is not absolute, but it is higher than in the general population.

[@ShesDiabetic]

My husband and I are open to all kinds of options. I know it's difficult to have kids and live with type 1 diabetes, and the danger of passing it on is present, but I also know many many many women with t1d that have gone on to have kids that have grown up to be completely healthy, happy and non-diabetic adults. But I'd be lying if I said it wasn't something I wondered/considered/played on my mind.

[@alexandre67]

@@ShesDiabetic It's very important that your diabetes is perfectly balanced during pregnancy. If your gestational diabetes is well controlled, you can have a normal delivery. The risk of the child developing T1DM is low, and even if it does, it won't prevent him or her from having a perfectly normal life.

[@malcolmgraves3574]

☺️ P r o m o s m

[@jenniferbowie2773]

Wow I thought I was paying a lot wow I don’t think you have the best most of my stuff is a fraction of that and I have bc/bs the best insurance so

[@rcm9762]

Multiply that by 55 years

[@ShesDiabetic]

Exactly...insanity...!!!

[@jenniferbowie2773]

Wow you insurance sucks!

[@adelarsen9776]

Have you discovered the Carnivore Diet ? You might get off all your meds if you eat proper human food....

[@russellseaton2014]

Nonsense.

[@adelarsen9776]

I got rid of my diabetes and chronic inflammation by going carnivore. I also lost 40kg. My diabetes and the forever meds are GONE. Be sure of your facts before you open your mouth. T1D can be virtually eliminated by a non inflammatory diet and T2D can be cured. It's so easy - Just cut out the non-human products. Millions of people have gotten rid of T1D and T2D with carnivore diet. @@russellseaton2014

[@friedelpas5637]

With T1D the cells in your body producing insuline are dead! And insuline can not taken with food at all. So there is no type of diet that can result in getting off meds in case of T1D! Zo indeed, complete nonsense and very dangerous that this can be shared in such a way.

[@adelarsen9776]

Why is it nonsense ? Come on... tell me. @@russellseaton2014