U.S. Sens. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Susan Collins (R-ME) are introducing new, bipartisan legislation, the Diabetes Interventions Addressing Barriers to Enrollment, Technology and Education Services (DIABETES) Act, to improve access to diabetes treatments and respond to the ongoing need for diabetes technology education among Medicare beneficiaries.

“Far too often, Medicare beneficiaries have to jump through hoops to access life-saving diabetes care or are forced to change treatments simply because of outdated coverage requirements,” said Senator Shaheen. “This bill would improve access to supportive services, eliminate disruptions in coverage and remove significant obstacles so that those on Medicare can continue with the treatment regimens that work best for them.”

“Delays or disruptions to coverage of diabetes technologies can significantly diminish patient health, particularly for those enrolling in Medicare,” said Senator Collins. “This bipartisan legislation would streamline coverage for insulin pumps and expand education and training for patients and providers, improving care for individuals managing diabetes.”

The bill has been endorsed by the Diabetes Technology Access Coalition and the American Diabetes Association.

“For too long, Americans with diabetes have been frustrated in trying to access diabetes care that works for them. For the thirty two percent of Medicare beneficiaries who have diabetes, they need access the care that works for them, ranging from pharmaceutical and technological interventions to behavioral interventions, like diabetes self-management training. This is essential since individuals experience their diabetes uniquely. This bill would dramatically improve access to diabetes care for our seniors, and DTAC applauds Senators Shaheen and Collins for their leadership and commitment to ensuring that all individuals have access to a comprehensive and flexible set of diabetes treatment options,” said Tim Trysla, Executive Director of the Diabetes Technology Access Coalition.