Kathryn Litten, CommUnityCare Clinical Pharmacist, PharmD, BCACP
Alex Garza, PharmD Candidate, University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy
Beginning in late 2020, CommUnityCare spearheaded a pilot program to provide insulin pumps to patients who would otherwise not be able to access the insulin pump due to cost. The purpose of the program was to determine the efficacy and satisfaction of the insulin pump in underserved communities and to provide data to support continued funding. CommUnityCare is a nonprofit community health system with almost 30 locations in Central Texas that provide healthcare to underserved communities.
A team of pharmacy students from the University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy evaluated the pilot program.
The Results
A group of 27 CommUnityCare patients in Central Health’s Medical Assistance Program (MAP) who have type one or type two diabetes received insulin pumps at no cost. Overall, the patients’ A1C levels (average blood sugar) dropped by 1.2%, a significant decrease. Patients also reported fewer hypoglycemic events. Most surveyed patients were either satisfied or very satisfied with their pump and said the insulin made a difference in treating their diabetes. Quality of life improved.
Overcoming Barriers to Treatment
According to the American Diabetes Association, diabetes is the most expensive chronic condition in our nation. Diabetes continues to affect the population both nationally and in Texas, with nearly one in three adults living with the disease.
As with many other chronic conditions, systemic barriers such income, access to quality healthcare, and education often increase the chances a person will develop diabetes and increase the odds that the disease will remain uncontrolled.
Insulin pumps have many advantages for patients with diabetes, including lowering A1C levels and reducing hypoglycemic events and injections. However, insulin pumps cost upwards of $8,000 without insurance, plus up to $6,000 a year for ongoing supplies.
The CommUnityCare pilot overcame this cost barrier, allowing patients access to insulin pumps and made a positive impact on patient quality of life and insulin levels.