Registration open for series on managing type 2 diabetes

Those who have type 2 diabetes know there are a number of medications available to help manage the disease. And many diabetics take a number of pills and shots daily, with the added expense of test strips and other supplies.

Diabetes is an expensive disease. A recent report from the American Diabetes Association determined the average medical cost each year for a diabetic is almost $12,000. Those with diabetes spend over twice what a non-diabetic spends on health care.

Health officials note that diabetics having a hard time covering the cost of all their medicines should not just stop taking them or cut back on dosages. That increases the possibility of complications. Allowing blood glucose levels to climb out of recommended ranges can have severe consequences.

Before cutting back on medications, diabetics are advised to let their physician know they are having a hard time with the costs before he writes out a prescription. Many times, a physician can substitute a generic drug and in some cases, they can help apply for pharmacy assistance.

Diabetics also should check different drug stores for prices before filling prescriptions. Some large department stores and drug stores are offering many medicines for $4 per prescription. While they may not be the latest or newest medicines, the $4 prescriptions are effective drugs that have been on the market for a long time. Having the latest drug may not be the solution if the patient cannot afford to pay for it and doesn't take it as prescribed.

Also, diabetics are encouraged to talk to their physician about other things they might do to reduce the need for many medications. If health allows, losing weight and walking 30 minutes daily could have a significant impact on the need for medicines.

To learn more ways to save money for diabetics, consider signing up for the five-class series with nine topics offered through "Do Well, Be Well with Diabetes," offered by Texas AgriLife Extension Service Lampasas County. Morning and evening classes will be taught by a team of medical volunteers who will offer the latest information on type 2 diabetes.

For more information or to register, phone 556-8271, ext. 140.