How to Afford Diabetic Supplies: 2026 Guide

Most major diabetic supply manufacturers offer patient assistance programs for individuals who meet income or insurance eligibility criteria. These programs can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs or provide supplies at no charge.

• Dexcom — Dexcom Patient Assistance Program for uninsured or underinsured patients. Covers G6 and G7 sensors.
• Abbott (FreeStyle) — FreeStyle Promise Program offering discounted sensors and test strips with qualifying prescriptions.
• Medtronic — Financial assistance for pump supplies and CGM sensors through the Medtronic Patient Financial Programs.
• Insulet (Omnipod) — Omnipod DASH and Omnipod 5 copay assistance for commercially insured patients.

The federal 340B Drug Pricing Program requires pharmaceutical manufacturers to provide outpatient drugs at significantly reduced prices to eligible health care organizations. Many of these organizations operate pharmacies that pass savings directly to patients.

You can find 340B-eligible pharmacies in your area through the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) database. Eligibility is typically based on the healthcare organization serving a disproportionate share of low-income patients, not on individual patient income.

Prescription discount cards and comparison tools like GoodRx, RxSaver, and SingleCare can reduce the cost of diabetic supplies at participating pharmacies. Discounts vary by product and pharmacy but can be significant, particularly for test strips and lancets.

These programs are free to use and do not require insurance. They work by negotiating lower rates with pharmacies on behalf of consumers. Compare prices across multiple pharmacies, as costs can vary substantially within the same city.

Medicare Part D covers most diabetic supplies, including test strips, lancets, and some CGM sensors. For individuals with limited income and resources, the Medicare Extra Help (Low-Income Subsidy) program can reduce or eliminate premiums, deductibles, and copayments.

Eligibility for Extra Help is based on annual income and asset limits. Applications are processed through the Social Security Administration. If you qualify, you can save an average of $5,000 per year on prescription drug costs.

Several nonprofit organizations provide diabetic supplies at reduced cost or no charge to individuals in need:

• Insulin for Life — Accepts and redistributes unexpired insulin and diabetic supplies to those in need globally.
• GetInsulin.org — Emergency insulin assistance for people in crisis situations.
• Diabetes Foundation — Provides supplies and education resources to uninsured and underinsured individuals.
• NeedyMeds — Database of patient assistance programs, coupons, and discount drug cards.

Verified resale marketplaces offer another path to affordable diabetic supplies. These platforms connect individuals who have unused, unexpired supplies with people who need them at below-retail prices.

When considering a marketplace, look for:

• Physical inspection and verification of products before sale
• Clear expiration date disclosure on every listing
• A return policy in case of product issues
• Clear shipping and intake practices
• Compliance with state regulations on diabetic supply resale

National Diabetic Exchange buys unused supplies through the same verification standards we describe here. We include ourselves for completeness, not as an endorsement over other options.