Insulin emergency?

Question

I've posted this before with very little help..please someone.

My BF is a type 1 diabetic and takes Lantus and Humolog. He got laid of from work and lost income and insurance, i just got a new job and am basically broke paying the bills.
We cannot afford his insulin which is dangerously low. He will run out within the week.
What can we do? I heard somewhere about a program that helps people get their meds for cheaper when they are poor/on hard times/without insurance.
Any suggestions?

We live in tx btw

Answer 1

You can try contacting Texas Medicaid. I'm not sure if they offer any kind of prescription coverage, but it's worth a try. Also try needymeds.com. It is a prescription program for patients who have no prescription insurance and limited funds.

Answer 2

Your situation is horrible, and I can't believe that your government doesn't cover it! I live in MB, Canada, and all diabetic equipment, prescriptions, and needs are fully covered once you reach your deductable, which is 3% of your family earnings (in MB).

But even a deductable can be pretty high. Have you considered going to a diabetic resource centre in your city? I'm sure there are plenty in TX. I personally volunteer to be a "lab rat" at a diabetes research centre in my city, and try different, new, and safe meds. Of course it is safe! I've been taking pre-FDA approved meds for years, with no side effects. For example, I have been selected years ago to take inhaled insulin as a test subject. Now, instead of four injections a day, I take just one long acting injection of Glargine (which is still too new of a drug for MB gov't to cover.) Guess what - the FDA approved it only a few months ago, because of folks like us!

I've been on a few studies over the past ten years, and all were safe. Pharmacuticals that sponsor studies provide free insulin, aids, strips, blood meters, everything! They even pay you for your time!

All trial meds have been clinically safe on other organisms, and the mandatory human trials are required prior to Health Canada or FDA approval as there are many factors and people. So, its basically safe, it just needs to be confirmed with hard data that it works.

Other than that, I really don't know what other good resources are available in the States. I just think that its rediculous that people have to pay for their meds when it wasn't their fault to get their condition in the first place!

As a diabetic for over 25 years, let me say this: If you are really running low, the best thing to do is do what they did 90 years ago: Drastically cut back on your carbs, and continue to do some low-aerobic exercises. But remember: this is only a temporary and poor solution at best. You will need your usual dose sooner or later.

Call your doctor or clinic. They may have some insulin and supplies if you tell them your dire situation.

I truly and honestly wish you and your boyfriend well.

Answer 3

Blazeric, I honestly considered reporting you for spamming. But I decided to post this instead.

This is not a cold or a flu here, Blazeric. This person has a potentially fatal condition. He needs insulin to keep his heart beating. Period. No insulin for a few days and he is dead. Period. 100%. How would you like to be responsible for his horrific coma followed by death?

Type 1 diabetes is the severe non-preventable kind that always requires insulin. It is NOT linked to obesity like the common form of diabetes, and there is no miracle pill, herb, or liquid that can replace a pancreas. You wouldn't try to replace a heart with a drink would you? So why do this with a pancreas? Not going to work....

I am not against complementary therapy, but that is not what you are suggesting, and this person is in a grave state and needs REAL help.

As for the question, I would go to your local hospital the day before he is about to run out of insulin, and tell them that he is a Type 1 diabetic with no insulin. They will have to admit him (insurance or not), or give him insulin to take home. They may also direct you to a low cost/free clinic where you can get supplies. Call your local social services agency and ask for help. You may be able to get his insulin paid for. I think it's called MEDICAID.

I live in Canada where we do not directly pay for our healthcare (but we do in taxes! ;), so I am not too familiar with insurance. I have heard people mention COBRA gov. insurance for people in situations like yours. I do not know the cost, but you could look into that.

Your doctor may also be able to give you free insulin samples to tide you over. Ask. Do not wait to do any of these things until he is in a very bad state.

EDIT: Hey Necessary Evil...I'm also from MB!!! But I'm going to school in Sask. Just wanted to say hi! Lots of good research in Manitoba. I'm hoping to move back and work there at some point. Unless I decide somewhere warm is calling my name.... :D

Answer 4

Blazeric 123, Don't' push your crap on anything else but alternative medicines. Have you ever seen someone in ketoacidosis? Not pretty.

Is there anyone you can borrow some money from to get some insulin? Can you put something in halk long enough to pay back?

Answer 5

Someone has to pay for the insulin. A person with type 1 will die without it.
Have him talk to his doctor. They often give away free goodies for those in need.

Answer 6

I would check out the American Diabetes Association Website...I have heard that they will assist those with diabetes who cannot afford insurance. You should read this on their website :http://www.diabetes.org/advocacy-and-legalresources/healthcare/healthinsurance/low-income.jsp

I really hope this helps good luck

Answer 7

Pawn something. TX is full of pawn shops.

Hoccing the TV is a lot better than dying.