Diabetes Treatment

​The treatment of diabetes focuses on keeping blood glucose levels within a healthy range to prevent complications and improve quality of life. Management strategies depend on the type of diabetes but generally include lifestyle changes, medications, and in some cases, insulin therapy. A combination of healthy eating, regular physical activity, blood sugar monitoring, and appropriate medical care forms the foundation of effective treatment.

A Guide for Patients and Families

Living with diabetes often means facing the reality of insulin therapy — especially for people with Type 1 diabetes and those with advanced Type 2 diabetes. Insulin is not a choice but a lifeline, helping patients keep blood sugar levels under control and avoid dangerous complications.

But one question looms large for most families: “How much will insulin really cost us?”

The answer depends on where you get it — a private hospital, a local medical store, or a government health facility. Costs can swing dramatically, and knowing your options can make the difference between spending a fortune and managing diabetes affordably.

Understanding Insulin Therapy

Insulin therapy usually means taking insulin through injections or insulin pumps. While the thought may feel overwhelming at first, it is a safe and effective way to keep diabetes under control. Families should know that several types of insulin are available in India, each serving a unique purpose:

1. Rapid-acting insulin – works almost immediately after meals.

2. Short-acting insulin – controls blood sugar for a few hours.

3.  Intermediate-acting insulin – has a longer effect.

4. Long-acting insulin – provides control for up to 24 hours.

5.   Insulin mixtures and pens – combine convenience with precise dosing.

Insulin Therapy: Cost and Access in India

The Real Cost of Insulin Therapy in India

The financial burden of insulin therapy can vary widely. Let’s break it down:

1. Private Hospitals and Pharmacies

Vials (10 ml): ₹250–₹600 each.

Monthly usage: 2–4 vials, costing ₹1,000–₹2,500.

Syringes: ₹150–₹300 per month.

Insulin pens: priced at ₹500–₹700.

2. Outside Medical Stores (Chemists)

Vials: ₹200–₹500 each.

Monthly cost: ₹800–₹2,000.

Syringes and pen refills: Often available at wholesale prices.

Discounts: Possible if bought in bulk.

3. Government Hospitals / Health Centres

Insulin: Free under the NPCDCS (National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke).

Syringes and cartridges: ₹100–₹200.

Registration/consultation fees: ₹20–₹50.

Monthly cost: ₹0–₹200.

Step-by-Step Cost Comparison (1 Patient, 3 vials/month)

Private Hospital (approx):

3 vials × ₹400 = ₹1,200

Syringes = ₹200

Consultation = ₹600

Total per month: ₹2,000

Yearly cost: ₹24,000

Outside Medical Store (approx):

3 vials × ₹300 = ₹900

Syringes = ₹150

Consultation = ₹500

Total per month: ₹1,550

Yearly cost: ₹18,600

Government Hospital (approx):

Insulin = Free

Syringes = ₹100

Registration = ₹20

Total per month: ₹120

Yearly cost: ₹1,440

Government Schemes and Insurance Support

The good news is that India has multiple schemes to make insulin affordable and accessible:

1.Ayushman Bharat (PM-JAY): Covers up to ₹5 lakh per family per year, including diabetes treatment.

2.NPCDCS: Free insulin and medicines through government hospitals.

3.State Health Schemes: For example, Swasthya Sathi in West Bengal, offering cashless treatment.

4.ESI (Employees’ State Insurance): Free/subsidized medicines and consultations for workers.

5.Jan Aushadhi Kendras: Provide generic insulin at 50–80% lower prices than branded versions.

Practical Tips for Families

1.Compare prices between hospital pharmacies, local medical stores, and Jan Aushadhi Kendras.

2.Always check if you qualify for free or subsidized insulin at government hospitals.

3.Enrol in national or state health schemes to reduce long-term costs.

4.Keep medical bills safely — they are essential for insurance claims.

>Tip: Follow the doctor’s instructions carefully to avoid wasting insulin.

Conclusion

Insulin therapy saves lives, but it doesn’t have to drain your wallet. A family relying only on private hospitals might spend ₹20,000–₹25,000 per year, while the same treatment could cost less than ₹2,000 per year through government facilities.

With support from Ayushman Bharat, NPCDCS, state health schemes, and Jan Aushadhi Kendras, every patient in India has the opportunity to access affordable insulin. The key is awareness, planning, and making the right choices.

Insulin is more than a medicine — it’s the bridge to a healthier, longer life. And with the right resources, it can remain affordable, accessible, and life-saving for all.