In the U.S., truly free diabetes supplies typically come through insurance benefits (private plans, Medicare, Medicaid), manufacturer patient assistance, or nonprofit programs. Coverage depends on the plan, the specific item, and whether a clinician documents medical necessity. To avoid gaps, review plan details, ask about prior authorizations, contact manufacturer assistance programs, and use community resources when needed.

Why "free" depends on your coverage

Many people hear that diabetic supplies can be free and assume that means no cost for everyone. In the U.S., most truly no-cost options depend on insurance, manufacturer assistance, or nonprofit programs. Coverage and eligibility vary by plan, diabetes type, and the specific item (test strips, lancets, glucose meters, continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), insulin, or pumps).

Insurance types and typical coverage

Private health plans: Most employer and marketplace plans cover diabetes supplies and insulin as part of their prescription or durable medical equipment benefits. The exact brands, quantities, and co-pays depend on the plan's formulary and benefit design.

Medicare and Medicaid: Federal and state programs cover some diabetes supplies, but rules differ. Medicare beneficiaries may get supplies through Part B or Part D depending on the device and how insulin is delivered. Medicaid coverage varies by state and can include supplies and insulin with different prior authorization rules.

How diabetes type affects what you get

Type 1 diabetes usually requires insulin and may qualify a person for coverage of insulin pumps and CGMs more often than many people with type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes treatment varies from lifestyle management to oral medications to insulin; coverage follows the medical need documented by a provider.

Other routes to low- or no-cost supplies

Manufacturer patient assistance programs: Insulin and device makers commonly offer financial assistance or free supplies for eligible patients. Requirements and availability change, so check providers' websites.

Community health centers and clinics: Federally qualified health centers, diabetes clinics, and charity programs can provide donated supplies or vouchers.

Nonprofits and foundations: Groups such as diabetes advocacy organizations maintain lists of local and national resources that can help with costs.

Practical steps to reduce or eliminate costs

  1. Review your plan documents and talk to your insurer to confirm covered supplies, quantities, and whether prior authorization is needed.
  1. Ask your clinician to document medical necessity when requesting devices that may trigger prior authorization.
  1. Contact manufacturer assistance programs - applications often require income documentation.
  1. Explore community clinics and nonprofit resources if insurance doesn't cover what you need.
Why timing matters

Running out of supplies undermines glucose control and can lead to emergency care. Confirm refill rules and delivery times with your pharmacy or DME supplier to avoid gaps.

If you have difficulty affording supplies, act early: coverage appeals, emergency assistance from nonprofits, or short-term manufacturer programs can bridge gaps while you pursue long-term solutions. 1

  1. Confirm current Medicare coverage rules (Part B vs Part D) for CGMs, insulin, and insulin pumps as of 2025.
  2. Verify Affordable Care Act/marketplace plan requirements for diabetes supplies and any federal updates affecting coverage eligibility as of 2025.

FAQs about Free Diabetic Supplies

Do I have to have insurance to get free diabetes supplies?
Not always. Insurance often covers supplies at low or no cost, but manufacturer assistance programs, community clinics, and nonprofits can provide free or discounted supplies for uninsured or underinsured people.
Will Medicare cover CGMs or insulin?
Medicare may cover certain CGMs and insulin-related supplies, but coverage depends on the device, how insulin is delivered, and current Medicare rules. Check your Medicare plan and ask your provider for documentation.
Does it matter whether I have type 1 or type 2 diabetes?
Yes. Type 1 diabetes usually requires insulin and may qualify more readily for pumps and CGMs. Type 2 treatment varies, so coverage follows the documented medical need.
What should I do if my insurer denies coverage?
Ask your clinician to provide a medical necessity letter, file an appeal with the insurer, and explore manufacturer assistance or nonprofit programs for temporary help.
Where can I find manufacturer assistance or charities that help?
Check insulin and device makers' patient assistance pages and search national diabetes advocacy groups or local community health centers for lists of resources and referrals.