Type 1 diabetes is a condition characterized by high blood glucose levels caused by a total lack of insulin. Occurs when the body's immune system attacks the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas and destroys them. The pancreas then produces little or no insulin. Type 1 diabetes develops most often in young people but can appear in adults.

--Adapted from NIDDK.

What are the Characteristics of Type 1 Diabetes?

Type 1 Diabetes is usually diagnosed in children and young adults, and was previously known as juvenile diabetes. In type 1 diabetes, the body does not produce insulin. Insulin is necessary for the body to be able to use sugar. Sugar is the basic fuel for the cells in the body, and insulin takes the sugar from the blood into the cells.

People who have Type 1 diabetes need insulin medication (usually by injection) because the insulin producing cells in their pancreas are damaged by the body's own immune system acting against itself. That's why diabetes is called an autoimmune disease.

As a result, the pancreas produces little or no insulin and the blood sugar levels get very high. The symptoms of Type 1 diabetes (thirst, frequent urination, and sugar in the urine) are usually first seen in childhood or adolescence and it is often called juvenile diabetes. However, this can be misleading since Type 1 diabetes can occur at any age.

Under the new Medicare guidelines, meters, testing strips, control solution, lancets and lancing devices are 80% covered for Type 1 diabetes.

When you order from Med-Care, you get free delivery, no upfront charges, and no claims to file. You can select from among 200 brand name products and our phones are answered 24 hours a day for your convenience.

Type 2 Diabetes / Non Insulin Diabetes

In July of 1998, a new Medicare law expanded coverage of diabetic testing supplies to include patients who are non-insulin dependent (Type 2). This is great news for the millions of seniors who have diabetes but relay on diet, exercise and oral medication to keep their glucose level under control.

The new Medicare guidelines now provide 80% coverage for meters, testing strips, control solution, lancets and lancing devices for Type 2 diabetics as well.

If you have Medicare and/or private insurance, you may also be eligible to receive respiratory medications and a nebulizer at little or no cost*.

*Co-payments and Deductables Apply