Diabetes Management: OTC Products Covered by Medicare Advantage
Managing Diabetes With OTC Products
Over 25% of Americans over 65 have diabetes. While medications require prescriptions, many diabetes management supplies and health products are covered by your OTC benefit. Using these products consistently helps you manage your condition between doctor visits.
Glucose Monitoring
- Blood glucose monitors: Some Medicare Advantage plans cover basic glucose monitors through OTC benefits. Check your plan catalog. Many monitors cost $20-$40
- Test strips: OTC glucose test strips are the ongoing cost of monitoring. Some plans cover a limited quantity per quarter through OTC benefits
- Lancets: The small needles used for finger pricks are OTC-eligible. Buy in bulk to ensure you always have enough for regular testing
Diabetic Skin & Foot Care
- Diabetic foot cream: Gold Bond Diabetic and similar products are specially formulated for diabetic skin — they moisturize without irritating. OTC-eligible
- Antifungal treatments: Diabetics are more prone to fungal infections. Keep clotrimazole or terbinafine cream on hand. OTC-eligible
- Wound care supplies: Diabetics must treat even minor cuts immediately. Stock antiseptic, antibiotic ointment, and bandages with your OTC benefit
Nutritional Support
- Diabetic nutritional shakes: Glucerna and similar products are designed for blood sugar management. Some OTC plans cover these as nutritional supplements
- Fiber supplements: Fiber helps regulate blood sugar by slowing glucose absorption. Metamucil and Benefiber are OTC-eligible
- Chromium supplements: Some research suggests chromium helps with insulin sensitivity. Available as an OTC supplement
Important Reminders
- Check regularly: Monitor blood sugar as directed by your doctor. OTC monitoring supplies make this affordable
- Foot check daily: Inspect your feet every day for cuts, blisters, or color changes. Diabetic neuropathy means you might not feel injuries
- Stay hydrated: Dehydration affects blood sugar levels. Keep a water bottle nearby throughout the day