Medicaid Provides Critical Access to Care, Medications and Technology for People with Diabetes
With great interest, the American Diabetes Association® (ADA) is watching Congress’ progress to enact President Trump’s policy agenda. The House Budget Resolution specifies federal budgetary spending and revenue targets, and instructs the House Energy and Commerce Committee to identify $880 billion in spending reductions from the programs and agencies under its jurisdiction. The committee oversees the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), among other agencies. It also presides over Medicaid, the joint federal and state program that provides health care for people with limited income and resources.
For many hard-working Americans, including those living with diabetes and prediabetes, Medicaid is critical to ensuring access to health care professionals, diabetes management technology, and medications—including insulin. Diabetes affects over 38 million children and adults in the U.S. Additionally, nearly 98 million American adults have prediabetes and are at risk for developing type 2 diabetes. Diabetes is the most costly chronic disease in the U.S., with the estimated cost of diagnosed diabetes at nearly $413 billion annually, driven by direct health care costs and productivity loss. It is well documented that unmanaged or poorly managed diabetes leads to serious complications, hospitalizations, and even death.
The ADA appreciates the administration’s statements regarding their commitment to preserve Medicaid and hopes that members of Congress remember the children and families who rely on Medicaid for their healthcare when considering budget proposals.
Our full statement:
“Access to health care coverage is vital for people with diabetes and prediabetes. Almost a quarter of the over 38 million American children and adults living with diabetes rely on Medicaid to provide access to health care, medications, and technology. Research shows having access to health insurance improves blood glucose (blood sugar) and cholesterol management and therefore reduces dangerous and costly medical outcomes for this community. The ADA appreciates the administration’s statements regarding their commitment to preserve Medicaid. We ask that as they consider budget reforms, members of Congress defend Medicaid programs that enable people with diabetes in their communities to manage their disease and avoid the costly and dangerous medical consequences that come when they cannot access proper care.”
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About the American Diabetes Association
The American Diabetes Association (ADA) is the nation’s leading voluntary health organization fighting to end diabetes and helping people thrive. This year, the ADA celebrates 85 years of driving discovery and research to prevent, manage, treat, and ultimately cure —and we’re not stopping. There are 136 million Americans living with diabetes or prediabetes. Through advocacy, program development, and education, we’re fighting for them all. To learn more or to get involved, visit us at diabetes.org or call 1-800-DIABETES (800-342-2383). Join us in the fight on Facebook (American Diabetes Association), Spanish Facebook (Asociación Americana de la Diabetes), LinkedIn (American Diabetes Association), and Instagram (@AmDiabetesAssn). To learn more about how we are advocating for everyone affected by diabetes, visit us on X (@AmDiabetesAssn).
