Anyone that’s ever needed to purchase diabetic supplies knows how expensive they are, even with insurance. From insulin to test strips, costs continue to escalate. Exactly why the cost of diabetic supplies is so expensive depends on who you ask.

According to manufacturers, the cost of diabetic supplies reflects the cost of the research and development that went into the products, and the ultimate value to patients. Those companies also cite the complexities of their supply chains for elevated prices along with a lengthy and expensive testing process required by the FDA.

The truth is somewhat different. Pharmaceutical companies make the products and there are no laws or restrictions on what they can set the price at. Additionally, the companies don’t have to disclose the formula they use to set those prices and there are no price controls in the U.S. like there are in other countries.

When it comes to diabetic supplies, it’s the Wild West and the sky is the limit on what pharmaceutical companies can charge. They’re under no obligation to negotiate prices or disclose discounts agreed upon with Pharmacy Benefit Managers. It often leaves diabetics with few options and no guarantee that what they can obtain is in line with their treatment or doctor’s orders.

Pharmaceutical companies can – and do – charge as much as the market will allow. It’s the nature of a capitalistic system. The result is that many individuals that are uninsured or uninsured are turning to older and cheaper types of insulin that are also less effective than newer options.

The exorbitant pricing doesn’t stop at insulin. Diabetic test strips are essential tools for monitoring and managing the disease. Test strips are incredible feats of engineering for measuring blood glucose levels. However, each manufacturer’s test strips will only work with the corresponding monitor – also made by the same pharmaceutical company.

The bottom line on costs for diabetic supplies is that the FDA has no power to regulate pharmaceutical companies and the federal government doesn’t want to get involved. Until comprehensive changes are implemented, individuals will continue to travel to Canada for insulin and make use of third-party test strip sellers in the U.S. for the life saving products they need.

If you would like to find out about earning cash for your unwanted, unused and boxed test strips, complete our online quote form today.

If you have extra, unopened and unused boxes of diabetic test strips – whether you have switched brands, no longer need to test or test less frequently, or have a loved one who has passed away – don’t let them gather dust until they’ve expired and end up in the trash. We’re the best place to sell diabetic test strips online, and if you want to sell your test strips, we’re here to make the process easy and enjoyable!

Visit us at Sell Your Test Strips and get your free quote today!