Robert Gehrke is right to call out what has become a serious public health issue in Utah: Many Utahns can’t afford the high cost of the insulin they need to control their diabetes.
It’s extremely dangerous if people ration or stretch their insulin doses. It can lead to severe health complications and even death. Mr. Gehrke also points out that a legislative solution might be needed.
But it’s important to note that health insurers and pharmacy benefit management companies can also play an important role. Last summer, global health service company Cigna, and its pharmacy benefit management unit Express Scripts, introduced the Patient Assurance Program to cap out-of-pocket costs at $25 for a 30-day insulin prescription. This makes insulin much more affordable and accessible to people whose lives literally depend on it.
More than a quarter of the approximately 24 million Americans who are diagnosed with diabetes use insulin. None of them should have to place their life at risk because they cannot afford the cost. As a company committed to helping people improve their health, well-being and peace of mind, we are proud to be part of the solution.
Douglas Roland Smith, medical executive, Utah market, Cigna
John Roble, president, Cigna Mountain States (Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Wyoming)
Donate to the newsroom now. The Salt Lake Tribune, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) public charity and contributions are tax deductible