An Act requiring that health care insurers provide coverage for treatment of diabetes.

Posted: February 15, 2000
Contact: Representative Lisa Murkowski at (907) 465-3783

House Bill 298 would require that health insurers in Alaska provide coverage for diabetes equipment, supplies, training and education as deemed necessary by state licensed health care providers. To date, 32 states have enacted legislation providing similar diabetes insurance coverage.

Over 36,000 Alaskans are affected by diabetes. Without education or proper treatment, diabetes can lead to kidney failure, amputation, nerve damage, blindness, extended hospitalizations, heart disease, and strokes. These medical complications, associated suffering, and resulting costs are often avoidable through patient education on proper nutrition, exercise, blood sugar monitoring, and medication.

Education is the foundation of quality diabetes care. It is the process of providing the person with diabetes the knowledge and skills needed to perform self-care, prevent crisis and make important life style changes required to effectively avoid complications. Through proper education, the diabetic may assume his/her appropriate role as an active participant in the treatment plan.

A number of published studies by the American Diabetes Association show decreases in health care utilization for people with diabetes receiving appropriate education and access to supplies. A Wisconsin study estimates annual savings of $917 per person with diabetes that translates into savings for the insurance industry as well. HB 298 promotes better health, and ultimately, lower health costs for the people of Alaska.

I urge your support of HB 298.