2016 Out-of-Pocket Expenses and Rationing Survey

T1International launched our Insulin & Diabetes Supply Survey in March 2016 to look at prices people pay out-of-pocket for their diabetes costs. We asked respondents to let us know

• the type of insulin they take
• how they take their insulin
• the out-of-pocket cost for their insulin
• what type of test strips they use
• the out-of-pocket cost of their test strips
• their out-of-pocket costs for other diabetes management (appointments, syringes, etc.)

We compared monthly out-of-pocket costs for diabetes with average monthly wages in each country and explored whether people use ketone strips and the glucagon injection, which are life-saving when blood sugars are too high or too low.

Hundreds of people completed the survey from more than 40 countries. The information gives us a wider picture of the global situation for people with diabetes, even if it is just a snapshot. It confirmed what we already know – that living with diabetes is a struggle for many and an exorbitant financial burden for others.

To cover the costs associated with diabetes management, people around the world pay anything from 0% to 118% of their monthly income.

You can explore the interactive data charts below.

Right click to save and share the graphics below.

It’s a very expensive disease and a poor man cannot afford the expensive medicines.

-Respondent from Pakistan

If we want the new, better insulin we have to pay out of pocket and it is very expensive.

-Respondent from Brazil

There are many times I can’t afford my meds so I go without, even knowing it will kill me.

-Respondent from the USA

It’s very expensive to buy strips and insulin. Insurance is only for the rich.

-Respondent from Fiji

The price an insulin pump is out of reach for most people.

-Respondent from Kenya