CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) — After a study found that more than 1 million Americans with diabetes rationed their insulin in the past year, a diabetes specialist with Northwestern Medicine said it’s clear why efforts to make insulin more affordable are desperately needed.
Dr. Avni Vora said she blames the problem on the soaring cost of insulin.
“Vials of insulin, which hold about 1,000 units, used to cost about $40 – $50 a vial, and now they can cost anywhere from $300 – $500 per vial, if you’re paying for it out-of-pocket,” she said.
Instead of paying exorbitant prices, Vora said patients have been trying to ration their insulin.
“So, they buy insulin when they can, and then they use less than what they need to try and keep their sugars under control enough that they don’t end up in the hospital,” Vora said.
Related
Vora said people with Type 1 diabetes, in some cases, are putting their lives at risk by rationing insulin. People with Type 2 diabetes, meanwhile, are at greater risk of a variety of health complications.
“Over the course of months and years, if their sugars are not controlled, they start developing complications from diabetes,” Vora said. “Diabetes is the most common cause of blindness, dialysis, and non-traumatic amputation in the country.”
Vora said the government, the medical profession, the drug industry and insurance companies need to work together to find ways to make insulin more affordable.
That’s the only way to ensure people with diabetes aren't forced to ration their insulin and put their health at greater risk, Vora said.
Related
Related
Listen to WBBM Newsradio now on Audacy!