A new report on diabetes by the National Conference of State Legislatures is meant to help consumers, health providers and lawmakers with a disease affecting some 24 million Americans and costing $174 billion annually.
"Diabetes Health Coverage: State Laws and Programs," released Tuesday, includes a 50-state chart that highlights laws mandating diabetes coverage, whether for healthcare or testing supplies. According to NCSL officials, the report also answers questions related to state-enacted health insurance laws and provides an overview of many state programs aimed at supporting the diabetes community.
The report includes diabetes coverage provided by Medicare, Medicaid and the State Children's Health Insurance Program.
NCSL's report covers programs in some states to improve healthcare services for preventing, detecting and treating diabetes and its related complications. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides financial assistance and support to states for these programs.
Diabetes has been called "the epidemic of our time." The Department of Health and Human Services estimates that about one in four U.S. adults age 20 or older has pre-diabetes.
State legislators recognize how diabetes affects those living with it, their families and communities. As of mid-2009, 46 states and the District of Columbia have laws that require some health insurance coverage for diabetes treatment.
"Every state legislature plays a role in helping tame this spreading disease,” said Richard Cauchi of the NCSL. "This new report can help readers navigate the varied laws, programs and resources aimed at diabetes."
With diabetes, a body does not produce or properly use insulin. Diabetes is different from most other major diseases because although there is yet no cure, treatments exist that allow most patents to live relatively normal lives. Much of the day-to-day diabetes treatment and management can take place at home and can be self-administered. The necessary education, training, equipment and supplies and their costs have led to a special set of state laws and insurance-related benefits.
The NCSL report on diabetes can be purchased for $25 on the NCSL Web site. State lawmakers and their staff can get a free copy by calling 202-624-8667.