The Angry Type 2 Diabetic: Resources for Needy Diabetics

Resources for Needy Diabetics

When we find ourselves in a situation where we need help, the most important thing is not to panic. Break down the puzzle a little at a time, use the internet to your benefit, and contact your local department of human service agencies, or even non-profit organizations, or churches. They will most likely have listings of local services offered in your community, for free or for a sliding scale fee.

Things that might be beneficial to do: 

  • Apply for Medicaid: Even if you are certain you will be denied coverage, many assistance programs require that you have a Medicaid denial letter before they can help you. 
  • When you visit a free clinic: Request a doctor write you a letter stating your glucose testing needs, and frequency. You might even want to bring any applications for patient assistance, as many require initialing and stating frequency of testing, for glucose strips, or even an Rx from a doctor. 
  • Keep your pay stubs: If you are working, however little, KEEP THOSE STUBS. Also keep your latest food stamp approval letter, if you have any. You can use it for all kinds of things, even a hardship deferment on any student loans, from college, that you might have. 
  • Contact your local colleges: In some areas, universities with a college of medicine might partner to help offer low cost, or no cost, medical services, as a branch Medicaid, which don't require as many hoops. Sometimes, they even partner with local transportation services, to offer low cost transportation to those who live far from their facilities. An example of such a program is IowaCare, previously known as "State Papers."
  • Keep on eye on newspapers or the internet (pharmaceutical sites, diabetes forums, glucose meter manufacturing sites, pharmacy sites) for coupons, free glucose meter offers, or glucose tab/gel samples, and other accessories:  Sometimes you can find a coupon that, combined with an item that is on sale, can get you that item for free. 

Food Assistance: 


Free Clinics: 


Free Birth Control and Pap Smears: 

Free Dental Clinics: 

Free Podiatry Clinics: 
If you have any suggestions or know of any other programs or services, please feel free to contact me, and I'll gladly add them to the list.