Diabetic Supplies Through Medicare OTC Benefits: What's Covered

Diabetes Management Through OTC

Over 25% of Medicare beneficiaries have diabetes. Your OTC benefit can supplement your prescription diabetes supplies with important over-the-counter products that help manage the condition day to day.

Blood Glucose Monitoring

• Glucose monitors: Basic blood glucose meters are covered by most OTC benefits. These are separate from CGM (continuous glucose monitors) which require a prescription
• Test strips: OTC test strips for basic glucose meters. Note: strips for specific prescription meters may need to go through pharmacy benefits instead
• Lancets: Disposable lancets and lancing devices for blood glucose testing
• Control solution: Glucose control solution to verify your meter is reading accurately

Diabetic Foot Care

• Diabetic socks: Non-binding, moisture-wicking socks designed for diabetic feet. Reduces pressure points and infection risk
• Foot cream: Therapeutic moisturizers for dry, cracked diabetic skin. Look for urea-based formulas
• Inspection mirror: Long-handled mirror to check the bottom of your feet daily for cuts or sores

Diabetic Skin Care

• Wound care supplies: Bandages, gauze, antiseptic, and antibiotic ointment. Diabetic wounds require careful treatment to prevent infection
• Skin protectant: Barrier creams to protect against moisture damage and skin breakdown

Diabetic Nutrition

• Sugar-free supplements: Sugar-free vitamins and nutritional supplements designed for diabetic dietary needs
• Fiber supplements: Help regulate blood sugar spikes after meals. Psyllium husk is particularly effective

Important Note

Your OTC benefit covers over-the-counter diabetic supplies. Prescription items like insulin, prescription glucose meters, and CGMs are covered under your Medicare Part B or Part D benefits, not OTC. Talk to your doctor about which supplies should come from which benefit.