1.Eli Lilly & Company offers a program called “LillyTruAssist” to provide insulin to those in need. Visit http://lillytruassist.com/.
2.The Charles Ray III Diabetes Association provides meters, strips and pump supplies to those who cannot afford them. To learn more, go to http://www.cr3diabetes.org/.
3.The Foundation for Health Coverage Education helps people without insurance to locate public and private assistance programs. Their website (www.coverageforall.org) has a simple eligibility checklist.
4.Needymeds runs a web site, www.needymeds.com, that provides up-to-date information on nearly 200 patient assistance programs run by drug manufacturers.
5.Novo Nordisk offers a Patient Assistance Program that provides free insulin, pen needles, and glucagon kits for those who fail to qualify for government-sponsored programs, do not have private insurance, and fall below a certain income level. Go to http://novonordisk-us.com/documents/section_frontpage/document/pap_diabetescare.asp to apply.
7.Script Relief is a prescription drug savings program that can offer discounts of up to 75% on some prescriptions. You can visit http://scriptrelief.com/ for more information.
8.In IrelandeCare Dental and ERM bring you a new dental insurance scheme that could help you not only save money on your dental bills but also to be more proactive about your dental health.
9.The Irish healthcare system
The irish health care is divided into public and private services.
If you are “ordinarily resident”, you can access a range of public health services that are free of charge or subsidised by the Irish government.
Generally, if you are living here and intend to continue to stay here for at least a year, you will be considered “ordinarily resident”.
There are two types of patient in the public healthcare system:
Category 1 – People with Medical Cards (full entitlement to access public health services)
Category 2 – People without Medical Cards (limited access to public health services).
Anybody in Ireland with a medical emergency is entitled to attend the Emergency Department. A patient visiting the Emergency Department will either be treated and sent home or will be admitted to a ward as an in-patient.
If you go to the out-patients or Emergency Department of a public hospital without being referred there by your GP, you may be charged €100. This charge does not apply to the following groups:
1.Medical card holders
2.People receiving treatment for prescribed infectious diseases
3.Children referred for treatment from child health clinics and school health examinations
4.People who are entitled to hospital services because of EU Regulations
5.Women receiving maternity services
In cases of excessive hardship, a HSE Area may provide the service free of charge.
If you have to return for further visits in relation to the same illness or accident, you do not have to pay the charge again.
The charge for in-patient/day services is €75 per day up to a maximum of €750 in a year. The charge does not apply to the following groups:
1.Medical card holders
2.People receiving treatment for prescribed infectious diseases
3.People who are subject to “long stay” charges
4.Children referred for treatment from child health clinics and school board examinations
5.People who are entitled to hospital services because of EU Regulations
6.Women receiving maternity services
In cases of excessive hardship, a HSE Area may provide the service free of charge.
10.Medical Card
In Ireland anyone over the age of 16 years who is ordinarily resident in the State is entitled to apply for a Medical Card.
You can qualify for a Medical Card under the following three main categories:
1.Means Test: People (and their dependents) whose income is within the financial guidelines
2.Undue Financial Hardship: People whose income is over the financial guidelines but the HSE decides that the financial burden of medical or other exceptional circumstances would cause undue hardship
3.Automatic: People who are automatically entitled to a Medical Card.
You must contact your nearest Health Centre for an application form or www.medicalcard.ie. If you are under 70 years of age ask for Form MC1 and if you are over 70 years of age ask for Form MC1a.
You must complete the application form and get your GP to sign it
You must have a Personal Public Service (PPS) number, which you can apply for at your local social welfare office
Medical card assessments based on a means test make allowances for rent or mortgage payments, childcare expenses and travel to work expenses. Income is assessed after tax and PRSI are deducted.
11.GP Visit Cards
In Ireland this card entitles holders to free GP services; however, they will have to pay for hospital services and a limited amount for prescription drugs.
To apply for a GP Visit Card, you use the same application form for a medical card.
While your GP Visit Card application is being processed, the HSE will also assess your entitlement for a full medical card.
12.Drug Payment Scheme
In Ireland The Drug Payment Scheme allows individuals and families who do not hold medical cards to limit the amount they have to spend on prescribed drugs. Under the Drug Payment Scheme, you will not pay more than €100 in any calendar month for approved prescribed drugs, medicines and appliances.
If you are ordinarily resident in Ireland, you are eligible to apply for the Drugs Payment Scheme. You can use the Drug Payment Scheme in conjunction with a Long Term Illness Book. Application forms are available from your local pharmacy or contact your local health centre for more information.
13.Long-Term Illness Scheme
In Ireland The Long-Term Illness Scheme allows people with certain conditions, who are not already medical cardholders, to obtain the medicines and medical and surgical appliances they require for the treatment of their condition, without charge. You do not have to satisfy a means test. The conditions included in the scheme are:
Acute leukaemia
Mental handicap
Cerebral Palsy
Mental illness (in a person under 16)
Cystic fibrosis
Multiple sclerosis
Diabetes insipidus
Muscular dystrophies
Diabetes Mellitus
Parkinsonism
Epilepsy
Phenylketonuria
Haemophilia
Spina bifida
Hydrocephalus
Conditions arising from the use of Thalidomide
If approved, you will be issued with a long-term illness book. Your pharmacist will provide you with the necessary drugs free of charge.
14.Maternity and Infant Services
In Ireland the Health Service Executive provides free maternity services for the period of pregnancy and for 6 weeks after the birth. The service is provided by your GP. You must be ordinarily resident in Ireland to avail of this service.
15.Health Services for People with Disabilities
In Ireland The Disability Act 2005 allows for an assessment of the needs of a person with disabilities. For more information on health services for people with disabilities go to Website: www.hse.ie
16.Private Health Care
You can avail of private health care if you can pay for it directly or you are covered by a private health insurance policy. Some employers offer health insurance as part of an employment package.
It is usual practice that no immediate private health insurance coverage is available for medical conditions existing before taking out a private health insurance policy. The restriction shall be removed upon the following periods of continuous membership: 5 years for members under 55; 7 years for members aged 55-59; 10 years for members aged 60 and over.
You can contact one of the private health insurers in Ireland.
High blood pressure or hypertension hardens the arteries and causes the heart to work harder. Exercise, minimizing salt in your diet, losing weight and minimizing stress are important ways to prevent as well as treat high blood pressure.
Losing as little as 5 or 10 percent of your body weight can result in better blood pressure, lower risk for diabetes and improved cholesterol levels, according to various research studies.
Foods such as spinach, beans, sunflower seeds, bananas, squash, cantaloupe, garlic, celery, lemon, honey, ginger, cumin seeds and cayenne pepper may help to reduce blood pressure because they are rich in magnesium and potassium.
Avoid salty food, put away your salt shaker, eat fewer preserved foods, frozen dinners and canned foods, as these are typically high in salt. Also, avoid overindulging in alcohol , it can increase blood pressure.
Replace butter with olive and canola oils, which contain good amounts of heart healthy monounsaturated fats,choose fish and beans instead of fatty meats, select nonfat or low-fat milk and yogurt in place of whole-milk versions, eat full-fat cheeses sparingly.
Avoid trans fats which increase LDL cholesterol, by skipping foods that contain “hydrogenated oil” or “partially hydrogenated oil” in their ingredient lists. (Big culprits include packaged snacks, crackers, bakery goods and some margarines.)
A diet high in fatty food, smoking, excess alcohol intake and obesity are associated with an increase in bad cholesterol, LDL (low density lipoprotein).
Cholesterol is a fat taken in by diet. Cholesterol is necessary for regulating body function. But too much cholesterol can cause health problems.
It can narrow the space inside arteries for blood flow to the heart, the brain and the legs. If cholesterol is not controlled, it can lead to heart disease, strokes and leg amputation.
Herbs and foods which can reduce cholesterol are: dandelion root, pumpkin seed, oats, sunflower seeds, whole grain breads, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, oranges and salmon.
Soluble fiber in oats, beans and citrus fruits like oranges, helps reduce “bad” LDL cholesterol levels.
Opting for whole grains, such as brown rice and whole wheat pasta, boosts your intake of total fiber (by way of insoluble fiber, which is also good for digestion) and can decrease levels of triglycerides, another “unhealthy” fat in the blood.
Omega 3 fats in fish lower triglycerides and blood pressure; they also can help prevent irregular heart rhythms.
Exercise also can reduce cholesterol.
You don’t need to be a professional athlete to benefit from exercise. Moderate exercise (e.g., brisk walking) will help to keep your heart healthy.
Top Tips
1.Eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables daily.
2.Limit yourself to less than 300 mg of cholesterol and less than 2,400 mg of sodium daily.
3.If you drink alcohol, limit yourself .
4.Talk with your health care provider about heart-related screens that might be important for you.
If you have any information,questions, or feedback you would like to include in this post.
Please email momo19@diabetessupportsite.com or leave your comments below.
You can cut food costs by eating more meals at home and by making sure they feature some of the healthiest foods from your supermarket , foods like whole grains, fruit,vegetables and beans.
Packing your lunch, snacks, drinks and other meals is less expensive and way healthier than eating out.
Make it a habit to cook at home, rather than eating out at the last minute.
Generally, you can feed an entire family of four for the same price as buying food for one or two people at a restaurant.
By cooking yourself, you also gain the benefit of knowing exactly what is in your food.
Fruits and vegetables are a source of dietary energy (calories), they provide key nutrients at a reasonable cost.
For starters, don’t be afraid to buy frozen vegetables in the freezer section of your local grocery store (or even canned vegetables such as tinned tomatoes).
Sure, I love fresh vegetables, but since frozen veggies are picked and then frozen at peak ripeness (and thus most nutritionally dense), they are often a better value while being edible for months longer.
Fresh fruits, berries and vegetables are usually in season only a few months per year, and are sometimes rather expensive.
Quick-frozen produce is usually just as nutritious. It is cheaper, available all year and is usually sold in large bags.
Frozen produce is great to use when cooking, making smoothies, or as toppings for oatmeal or yogurt.
Furthermore, you gain the advantage of being able to take out only what you’re about to use. The rest will be kept safe from spoiling in the freezer.
You will find that if you take advantage of healthy foods on sale (especially buy one get one free deals), many foods that are listed here will suddenly become a great value!
Some foods are way cheaper in less processed form.
For example, a block of cheese is cheaper than shredded cheese.
Whole grains, like brown rice and oats, are also cheaper per serving than most processed cereals.
Whole foods are often less expensive than their processed counterparts. You can also buy them in larger quantities.
You would be surprised to see how much you may be paying for soda, crackers, cookies, prepackaged meals and processed foods.
Despite the fact that they offer very little nutrition and are packed with unhealthy ingredients, they are also very expensive.
Many packaged or processed foods contain high levels of hidden sugar.
They may be easy to prepare but too much sugar causes rapid swings in energy and blood sugar, and can contribute to many serious health problems such as Type 2 diabetes.
Hidden sugar may be listed as corn syrup, molasses, brown rice syrup, cane juice, fructose, dextrose, or maltose.
Avoid foods such as instant mashed potatoes, white bread, canned soups , refined white pasta, and sugary cereals.
Satisfy your sweet tooth with naturally sweet food such as fruit, peppers, and sweet potatoes.
Healthy carbs (sometimes known as good carbs) include whole grains, beans, fruits, and vegetables.
Healthy carbs are digested slowly, providing long-lasting energy and keeping blood sugar and insulin levels stable.
Unhealthy carbs (or bad carbs) are foods such as white flour, refined sugar, and white rice that have been stripped of all bran, fiber, and nutrients.
Unhealthy carbs digest quickly and cause spikes in blood sugar levels and only short-lived energy.
By skipping the processed and unhealthy foods, you can spend more of your budget on higher quality, healthy foods.
When it comes to saving money at the grocery store, planning is essential.
Use one day each week to plan your meals for the upcoming week. Then, make a grocery list of what you need.
Also, make sure to scan your fridge and cabinets to see what you already have. There are usually a lot of foods hidden in the back that can be used.
Only plan to purchase what you know you’re going to use, so that you don’t end up throwing away a lot of what you buy.
Once you’ve planned your meals and made your grocery list, stick to it.
It’s very easy to get sidetracked at the grocery store, which can lead to unintended, expensive purchases.
If you go to the grocery store hungry, you are more likely to stray from your grocery list and buy something on impulse.
When you’re hungry, you often crave foods that aren’t good for you or your budget.
Try to grab a piece of fruit, yogurt or other healthy snack before you go to the store.
Cooking large meals can save you both time and money.
Leftovers can be used for lunches, in other recipes or frozen in single-portion sizes to be enjoyed later on.
Leftovers usually make very good stews, stir-fries,and salads. These types of food are especially great for people on a budget.
Most stores offer generic brands for nearly any product.
All food manufacturers have to follow standards to provide safe food. The generic brands may be the same quality as other national brands, just less expensive.
However, read the ingredients lists to make sure that you’re not getting a product of lower quality than you’re used to.
Remember: If your goal is weight loss, the majority of your calories should come from fat and protein, NOT carbohydrates/grains!
Try having one or two days per week where you use other protein sources, such as legumes, eggs or canned fish.
These are all very inexpensive, nutritious and easy to prepare. Most of them also have a long shelf life and are therefore less likely to spoil quickly.
If you can like me and Brendan my husband it is a great idea to grow your own produce!
We find seeds are very cheap to buy. With some time and effort like us, you may be able to grow your own herbs, fruit such as strawberries ,carrots, tomatoes,lettuce and onions and many more delicious vegetables.
Having a continuous supply at home saves you money at the store.
Home-grown produce also tastes a lot better than the store-bought varieties. You can also guarantee that it is picked at the peak of ripeness.
There are several online retailers that offer healthy foods for up to 50% cheaper.
By registering, you get access to daily discounts and deals.
What’s more, the products are then delivered straight to your door!
Avoid buying diabetic and dietetic foods. These foods can be very pricey and you don’t need them to follow a healthy meal plan. You can eat healthy foods at lower prices and still manage your diabetes.
The following list of foods are ideal choices for weight loss,lower in calories, yet packed with nutrition.
They are also commonly available, budget friendly, familiar to most, and liked by many. Their flavours and textures mesh well for tasty food combinations!
Why kale is so good for you: Kale is an undisputed superfood. A single serving (1 cup cooked) has ten times the daily value of bone-healthy vitamin K. It also has three times the daily value of vitamin A which help your vision.
Kale also contains properties that may protect against cancer and help our bodies detoxify.
Kale stands up to dressings without getting soggy , in fact, many culinary pros actually recommend dressing your kale ahead of time for better flavor.
So, you can make kale salad on a Sunday and still be eating good on Tuesday. Homemade kale chips are also super-easy to make (roast pieces in a single layer in the oven) and will satisfy a potato chip craving .
Sauté kale and beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Then top with Greek yogurt. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice and season with a little more salt and pepper.
A sister food to kale and leafy greens, from antioxidant to fiber to vitamin C, cabbage is both affordable and nutritionally dense. Cabbage is extremely versatile (soup, salad, stir fry, or sandwiches), and it has some superfood cancer fighting qualities as well.
Rich in both minerals and vitamins, fiber and protein, spinach should be your go-to choice for salads over cheaper but nutritionally deficient greens like iceberg lettuce.
Carrots are one of my favorite nutritionally dense snacks. Crazy amounts of vitamin A, good carbs, and a little bit of everything else, carrots are a solid choice to supplement a salad or soup.
“Isn’t it mostly water?” Well, yes. But as it turns out, since watermelon is so cheap, it is an incredible value per nutrient.
Packed with lycopene (antioxidant), vitamins A and C, potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus, watermelon is a wonderful and easy to eat nutritional deal.
Bananas are a great source of carbohydrate. Bananas are super cheap and provide you with tons of potassium. They can be added to oatmeal, eaten as a snack, or as a dessert.
Bananas are constantly being touted as a great source of potassium, which is a key nutrient for keeping your heart and kidneys running smoothly. They are also good sources for antioxidants like vitamins A, C, and E.
Bananas can be a great option for dessert. Freeze a banana and mash it down and add a cinnamon sprinkle on top. It’s like a banana ice cream!
An egg is one of the most nutritious foods you can eat. It contains all nine essential amino acids and is rich in iron, phosphorous, selenium, and vitamins A, B12, B2, and B5.
Toss hard boiled eggs in a salad, scramble eggs in a stir fry, or prepare a regular breakfast staple, eggs are usually too cheap to pass up.
Canned tuna and sardines are superb value and an awesomely lean protein source.
Check out other canned fish, such as salmon, for some variety.
Canned tuna and salmon are excellent sources of vitamins B6 and B12, magnesium, potassium, selenium, and anti-inflammatory omega 3 fatty acids. (So are other varieties of canned fish, like sardines and anchovies .)
And, salmon is one of the best food sources of vitamin D, a nutrient that’s crucial for our immune function, bone health,and mental health.
Legumes (especially when purchased in bags), are one of the best price per nutrient values out there. Legumes such as beans work great in a salads, soups, or even dips.
Providing copious amounts of both protein and carbohydrates, legumes offer great value !
Be wary though, nutritional value will vary depending on your specific legume of choice!
Lentils are super-high in minerals like thiamin, folate, iron, magnesium, potassium, zinc, and manganese. This is important because minerals help carry out nearly all our body’s enzymatic processes, including energy production, and we can only get them through food.
Lentils’ high fiber content helps digestive function and keeps blood sugar levels stable. And, with 18g of protein per cup, you can use them in place of meat and still feel satisfied.
Put lentils in a food processor with olive oil and spices of your choice to make a healthy dip/sandwich spread.
Or, use lentils in place of meat to make vegetarian meatballs. Lentils are delicious in salads, too!
Try a Mediterranean-inspired one with tomatoes, olives, mixed greens, and canned tuna.
Make an easy lentil soup by pureeing lentils with Greek yogurt and thawed frozen veggies. Season to taste.
Oats are incredibly cheap, provide ridiculous amounts of both carbohydrates and protein, and fulfill other micronutrient and mineral requirements such as thiamin, folate, magnesium, and phosphorus.
Oats help keep your blood sugar levels steady and could be the reason why oats seem to keep people fuller longer than most other cereals.
You can blend them into smoothies, soak them overnight with berries, or combine them with your Greek yogurt.
Oats are simple to make, can be prepared a variety of ways (sweet or savory), and can be bought and stored easily in bulk!
Avocados are a great food , both calorically and nutritiously.
Although they may appear costly, avocados can be an incredible price per nutrient value.
Avocados contain healthy fat and protein, and they’re packed with lots of vitamins and minerals. In fact, they have more potassium than a banana, and high doses of vitamins C, E, K, B6, and folate.
Put them in salads, on sandwiches, or eat them plain ! When your local grocery store puts avocados on sale, be sure to stock up!
A better nutritional value than normal potatoes (plus a lower glycemic load), sweet potatoes are a great source of carbohydrates, dietary fiber, and incredible amounts of vitamin A.
Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamin C, B6, and potassium.
Carotenoids, the compounds that give the potatoes their orange color, are powerful antioxidants that can help strengthen our eyesight and boost our immunity in addition to protecting against aging.
Dice up some sweet potatoes for breakfast home fries. They’re also delicious roasted (try them topped with toasted nuts or pomegranate seeds). Or, you can simply bake them (a shortcut: Pierce the skin a few times and microwave on high for 5-8 minutes) and eat with your favorite toppings.
Berries are low in sugar, high in fiber, and one of the best food sources of antioxidants. But, if you can’t get to a farmer’s market, frozen fruits might be your next best bet.
Thaw the berries and mix with Greek yogurt.
Use as a topping on oatmeal, pancakes, or granola.
18. Apples
Bowl of organic Apples
Low in sugar and high in soluble fiber, green apples help fill you up and stabilize blood sugar levels. As an added bonus, they can also save you from bad breath. That’s because the tartness in the apple stimulates saliva, which helps to break down bacteria in your mouth.
The flavour of a green apple can be used from breakfast to dinner. Green apples are great in juices and smoothies, and they’re also delicious sliced into salads. Or, try sautéing or roasting them and serving with chicken.
Chop up an apple and mix it with kale and lentils. Toss with a dressing made from vinegar (preferably apple cider), olive oil and Dijon mustard.
Eating well and exercising more can often reverse Type 2 diabetes, or at least reduce your need for medication.
Even small health tweaks can pay huge dividends. In one study, people at high risk of diabetes who lost 7% of their body weight through dietary changes and exercise reduced their diabetes risk by 58%.
Under your doctor’s advice, you may be able to delay the need for pricey prescriptions and daily home blood sugar testing with smart lifestyle changes.
Losing weight, eating more foods packed with certain nutrients including fiber and omega-3s and exercising at least a few times a week can steady blood sugar levels to a point where you may not need medication or can start on a lower dosage.
Exercise of just 30 minutes daily has been shown to maintain weight or even cause weight loss.
And exercise can increase insulin sensitivity, meaning less insulin is needed to control your blood sugar.
Exercise can be fun, and varying the exercise type can make exercise more interesting on a day-to-day basis.
Start with simple stretches, walks, jogging stationary in one spot, and/or lifting cans of soups as weights.
Also, extra calories can be burned while doing housework , dancing to music while you vacuum or wash dishes, or walk your dog rather than simply letting your dog out in the back yard or garden.
No need for fancy equipment or spandex outfits!
Exercise does not have to mean going to a gym and paying monthly fees.
Web-based free exercise programs can entertain while making exercises enjoyable. Try it!
Some herbs and even foods such as aloe vera, fenugreek, parsley, rosemary, and almond nuts may help to control blood sugars.
Spices can make vegetables more interesting without adding salt.
Limiting foods such as rice and pasta, sweets and sodas can lower blood sugars.
Work with your doctor to set healthy weight and blood sugar goals and meet them.
Consider working with a nutritionist or following an eating and exercise plan tailored to blood sugar control.
Using generic rather than brand-name medications typically lowers your cost of prescription medications.
What Are the Ways Generics Are the Same as Brand-Name Drugs?
The FDA requires a generic drug to meet standards that make sure it’s the same basic product as the brand-name drug. That means the generic drug is safe and can be taken:
The same way as a brand-name drug
For the same reason as a brand-name drug
For the FDA to approve a generic drug, it must be the same as the brand-name product in its:
1.Active ingredient
2.Strength
3.Use and effect
4.Form of dosage (for example a pill, inhaler, or liquid)
5.Ability to reach the required level in the bloodstream at the right time and to the same extent
6.Testing standards
Take advantage of Discounts via Coupons and Loyalty Programs
There are many things you can do as part of your regular shopping routine to save money. For example:
1.Watch the ad flyers or coupon books coming to you in the mail from your Pharmacy.
2.Keep an eye on diabetes supplies websites for digital coupons you can print or save on your phone.
3.Ask if your pharmacy has a loyalty program. A higher volume customer, such as a person with diabetes, can often get frequent discounts on general merchandise or even prescription medications,in America only this is true!
4.Clip coupons. For example, some coupons may offer deals like receiving a free meter with the purchase of 100 test strips. Some drug stores publish their own health magazines frequently found by the pharmacy counter.
5.Contact diabetes supply companys. Tell them you’d like to try out their products and ask them to send you some samples.
6.Buy a medical alert bracelet on eBay.
7.Purchase medications online. Online pharmacies sell prescriptions at reduced costs.Web resources can offer less costly supplies, such as meters and strips but make sure these are reliable sources,speak with your doctor and/or diabetes educator as to whether these are reliable websites.
8.Purchase multiple prescriptions at once. The cost may be reduced if you buy in bulk.
9.Ask your diabetes educator or doctor for samples. This is especially helpful if you are trying a new product or medication.
10.There are many companies that utilize focus groups to learn consumer opinions about products and services. People with diabetes are often requested.Contact local companies that perform market research to register, and you can be compensated for your opinions.
11.Be sure to use products before their expiration date so there is no waste.
12.For more information on how to save money on diabetes management supplies, make an appointment with your diabetes nurse educator.
4.Become Best Friends with your Pharmacist And Doctor
He/She can help you find cost-saving programs and get more out of your medications.
Most of us breeze in and out of the pharmacy without taking the time to say hi to the pharmacist, let alone stop and ask questions.
That’s a huge mistake, the pharmacist may be one of the most reliable sources of information about managing diabetes you have.
He/She can tell you, say, whether a drug you’re prescribed is available as a generic.
He/She may also be able to counsel you about timing your medications for better efficacy,some work better when taken a few minutes before a meal; others are more effective when you take them right when you start eating.
These seemingly small tweaks can impact how well your medications work over time and eliminate the need for you to manage the condition with costlier options.
You can also save a bundle by asking your pharmacist about drug assistance programs and community resources.
In many cases,he/ she may be more in the loop about these issues than your doctor.
Make a habit of saying hello and letting him/her know how you’re doing every time you visit.
Ask for free samples from your doctor,most doctors have access to them,especially newer, more pricey drugs.
If you’re struggling with your health bills, don’t be shy about letting your doctor know.
These days, you’re far from alone, and many places are increasingly willing to help people on a budget.
If you are thinking of making a change in your treatment regimen, give your doctor a call to brainstorm solutions.
My mother-in-law Mary whom I have mentioned in a number of articles bought me this bag for my birthday many years ago and every time I use it I think of her.
She is a great women for spotting a bargain and has good taste too!I really like the colour and style of this bag what do you think?
Since starting this website I havent had as much money to spend as I did previously when working in Teva Pharmaceuticals so I have learned to spot a bargain myself too!
Myself and Mary were in Arboretum Garden Centre a few years back and we both spotted a bargain,a lovely dog shopping bag which we both bought I still have mine and it is in good condition.See the photo below.
I still enjoy looking for a bargain or two I recently bought a few days ago a lovely green shell plate in Dove Hill which is the new name for Blarney Woollen Mills for only six euros it was reduced by fifty percent.
shell plate I got in Blarney for six euros!
I am not earning much money from this website yet so I very rarely spend money on myself.Most of my clothes I have had for years,the last time I got a new outfit was from my sister Joan she bought me a lovely dress!What do you think?
A new dress that my sister Joan bought me !
The great thing about this dress is it’s easy to wear and it needs no ironing and my twin sister is another women for spotting a bargain!
My favourite morning breakfast TV show is Ireland AM!
I especially enjoy the clothes section as it gives me some great ideas of how to organise my wardrobe and mix and match the clothes I already have without having to buy anymore new items which saves me a lot of money !
I got the idea for this outfit by copying what one of the model’s in Ireland AM was wearing 😊
I am very lucky that my husband is great at DIY and gardening as he is a fairly thrifty man himself especially when he is haggling over the price of an item!
I use to do my grocery shopping in Tesco when I worked in Teva Pharmaceuticals now I do my food shopping in Lidl and sometimes pick up a few things in Aldi but very rarely.
Brendan my husband enjoys going round Lidl and Aldi looking for bargains especially in DIY and gardening.He also searches online for the cheapest deals especially for holiday deals.
So its great fun looking for bargains and managing healthcare costs on a budget if you have time and energy to do so!
However not everyone has the time so I created the following article to help people!
I hope you all find it helpful!
Diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol can affect both quality and quantity of life, if not treated. These conditions do not discriminate ,they can affect all age groups and all ethnic groups.
If you have diabetes, there is no getting around the fact that taking care of yourself can be expensive. The cost of medical care, diabetes medications and supplies.
These expenses can be difficult to manage even in the best of times. In hard times it can seem impossible.
If you start skipping doctor’s appointments, medications, or blood sugar monitoring without telling your doctor or pharmacist, the consequences can be downright scary.
Unchecked sky-high blood sugar levels in diabetics with type 1 diabetes can cause diabetic ketoacidosis, a dangerous condition that occurs when your body doesn’t have enough insulin and starts breaking down fat for energy. It ultimately makes your blood so acidic it can kill you.
A night in the emergency room or a week in the hospital can rack up a lot of money in health care costs.
If you need to make a change in your diabetes treatment plan because of financial strains, talk to your doctor or pharmacist first—they’ll likely find a way to help.
If you’re one of the millions of people suffering from diabetes, you may be looking for ways to save money on health insurance and other diabetes-related health costs. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to keep your diabetes and your health care costs under control.
Even on a limited income, there are many cost-effective ways to control this condition, such as increasing physical activity and making better dietary choices and taking a look at the use of various herbs/spices, instead of salt to flavour food.
Having diabetes mellitus (DM), means your body is not effectively using the insulin it is producing to metabolize your food, and it is not producing as much as insulin as it should.
Diabetes, if uncontrolled, can affect the heart, kidneys and eyes over time.
There are two main types of diabetes, Type 1 and Type 2.
Type 1 diabetes requires treatment with insulin because the pancreas cannot produce insulin, while Type 2 diabetes can be treated in its early stages by taking pills.
So how does one deal with diabetes on a low budget?
Eating well and exercising more can often reverse Type 2 diabetes, or at least reduce your need for medication
Even small health tweaks can pay huge dividends. In one study, people at high risk of diabetes who lost 7% of their body weight through dietary changes and exercise reduced their Type 2 diabetes risk by 58%.
Under your doctor’s advice, you may be able to delay the need for pricey prescriptions and daily home blood sugar testing with smart lifestyle changes.
Losing weight, eating more foods packed with certain nutrients—including fiber and omega-3s—and exercising at least a few times a week can steady blood sugar levels to a point where you may not need medication or can start on a lower dosage which is true for Type 2 diabetes only not for Type 1 diabetes.
Exercise just 30 minutes daily has been shown to maintain weight or even cause weight loss.
And exercise can increase insulin sensitivity, meaning less insulin is needed to control your blood sugar.
You can cut food costs by eating more meals at home and by making sure they feature some of the healthiest foods from your supermarket , foods like whole grains, fruits,vegetables and beans.
Packing your lunch, snacks, drinks and other meals is less expensive and way healthier than eating out.
Make it a habit to cook at home, rather than eating out at the last minute.
Generally, you can feed an entire family of four for the same price as buying food for one or two people at a restaurant.
Don’t be afraid to buy frozen vegetables in the freezer section of your local grocery store .
Sure, I love fresh vegetables, but since frozen veggies are picked and then frozen at peak ripeness (and thus most nutritionally dense), they are often a better value while being edible for months longer.
Fresh fruits, berries and vegetables are usually in season only a few months per year, and are sometimes rather expensive.
Quick-frozen produce is usually just as nutritious. It is cheaper, available all year and is usually sold in large bags.
Frozen produce is great to use when cooking, making smoothies, or as toppings for oatmeal or yogurt.
Furthermore, you gain the advantage of being able to take out only what you’re about to use. The rest will be kept safe from spoiling in the freezer.
You will find that if you take advantage of healthy foods on sale (especially buy one get one free deals), many foods that are listed here will suddenly become great value!
1.Stir-fry: Heat a little vegetable oil/olive oil in a frying pan. Add diced chicken breast or pork loin and brown.
Add chopped vegetables of your choice and sauté until tender-crisp. Season with a splash of low-sodium soy sauce . Serve over cooked brown rice. Complete the meal with a dish of mandarin oranges and a glass of milk.
2.Casserole: Place 4 cups cooked brown pasta in a casserole dish. Add 2 cups of beans.
Add 2 cups green beans (drained) or broccoli (thawed and drained). Add 1 can diced tomatoes with juice and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Salt and pepper to taste. Combine.
Bake for 30-45 minutes in 350 degree oven until hot and bubbly (and reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees). Serve with apple slices and a glass of milk.
3.Omelet: Cook up eggs with your choice of fillings: veggies and shredded cheese, . Serve with orange slices and whole wheat toast.
4.Tuna//Egg Salad: Mix canned tuna or salmon, or hard cooked eggs with diced veggies of your choice (celery, onion, bell peppers, carrots, etc.) in a medium bowl.
Coat lightly with low fat mayonnaise and mustard or salad dressing. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Serve on toasted brown bread, in a whole-grain wrap or on top of a leafy green salad. Complete the meal with peaches and plums and a glass of milk.
5.Smoothie: Blend together 1 cup yogurt, 1 banana, 1 cup strawberries, and 1/2 cup milk.
6.Stuffed Potato: “Bake” a potato in the microwave. Slit the potato open and top with 1 teaspoon soft light butter. Add lowfat cheese and a dollop of salsa. Serve with carrot sticks and grapes.
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1.Eli Lilly & Company offers a program called “LillyTruAssist” to provide insulin to those in need. Visit http://lillytruassist.com/.
2.The Charles Ray III Diabetes Association provides meters, strips and pump supplies to those who cannot afford them. To learn more, go to http://www.cr3diabetes.org/.
3.The Foundation for Health Coverage Education helps people without insurance to locate public and private assistance programs. Their website (www.coverageforall.org) has a simple eligibility checklist.
4.Needymeds runs a web site, www.needymeds.com, that provides up-to-date information on nearly 200 patient assistance programs run by drug manufacturers.
5.Novo Nordisk offers a Patient Assistance Program that provides free insulin, pen needles, and glucagon kits for those who fail to qualify for government-sponsored programs, do not have private insurance, and fall below a certain income level. Go to http://novonordisk-us.com/documents/section_frontpage/document/pap_diabetescare.asp to apply.
7.Script Relief is a prescription drug savings program that can offer discounts of up to 75% on some prescriptions. You can visit http://scriptrelief.com/ for more information.
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