Diabetes treatment is becoming more frequent and more expensive, according to CDC data compiled by QuoteWizard, an insurance comparison service. The company analyzed the rise of diabetes and cost increases in insulin state by state from 2007 to 2017.
The analysis found that the number of people with diabetes in Texas increased from 10.3% to 11.9% over the last 10 years, an overall 16% growth. Comparatively, the national diabetes percentage increased by 29% from 2007 to 2017.
Medical costs nationwide increased 26% from 2007 to 2017, indicating that insurance premiums for diabetic treatment may likely follow the same rise. According to the American Public Health Association, one vial of insulin costs between $300 and $400. Meanwhile, North Texas Congressman Colin Allred is working on a bill to reduce the price of insulin that incentivizes pharmaceutical companies to keep prices at 2006 levels.
The data included reviews direct medical expenses and total cost of diabetes in by each state. The American Diabetes Association estimates the overall direct medical costs of diabetes in the US was $237 billion in 2017. In Texas, direct medical bill expenses for diabetes costs $18.9 billion. For a Texan with diabetes, the annual medical costs per person averages to $5,608 per year to manage their treatment.
