Inside Capitol Hill's Fight for Diabetes Care: What These Advocates Need You to Know

We're looking at some major policy issues happening in Washington, and what you can really do to effect change. George Huntley is the CEO of DPAC, the Diabetes Patient Advocacy Coalition. We've got a lot to cover: Medicare changes like competitive bidding that could dramatically limit access to CGMs and insulin pumps for seniors, the changing landscape around GLP 1 meds, and we talk about patient advocacy wins. I know some of you are cynical, but it can work. If you've ever thought your voice doesn't matter, this conversation may change your mind. This podcast is not intended as medical advice. If you have those kinds of questions, please contact your health care provider. Announcing Community Commericals! Learn how to get your message on the show here. Learn more about studies and research at Thrivable here Please visit our Sponsors & Partners - they help make the show possible! Learn more about Gvoke Glucagon Gvoke HypoPen® (glucagon injection): Glucagon Injection For Very Low Blood Sugar (gvokeglucagon.com) Omnipod - Simplify Life Learn about Dexcom  Check out VIVI Cap to protect your insulin from extreme temperatures The best way to keep up with Stacey and the show is by signing up for our weekly newsletter: Sign up for our newsletter here Here's where to find us: Facebook (Group) Facebook (Page) Instagram Check out Stacey's books! Learn more about everything at our home page www.diabetes-connections.com  Reach out with questions or comments: info@diabetes-connections. Keywords Diabetes, D-PAC, Medicare, GLP-1 medications, patient advocacy, healthcare access, insulin pumps, CGMs, diabetes technology, legislative reform AI info below: Summary In this conversation, George Huntley, CEO of the Diabetes Patient Advocacy Coalition (D-PAC), discusses the critical role of advocacy in improving diabetes care and access to technology. He highlights the challenges faced by patients, particularly regarding Medicare coverage for insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), and the implications of recent legislative changes. The discussion also covers the potential of GLP-1 medications in diabetes management and the importance of patient stories in advocacy efforts. Takeaways D-PAC focuses on affordable and equitable access to diabetes care. Advocacy is crucial for influencing healthcare policies. Competitive bidding for diabetes technology could limit access for seniors. Patient stories are essential in legislative advocacy. GLP-1 medications show promise in reshaping diabetes treatment. Economic factors play a significant role in healthcare access. The aging population of type 1 diabetes patients requires urgent attention. Collaboration among advocacy groups is vital for success. Healthcare costs are driven more by major medical expenses than by drug prices. Continued advocacy is necessary to protect patient access to care. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Diabetes Advocacy 03:01 The Role of D-PAC in Diabetes Care 05:53 Challenges in Medicare Coverage for Diabetes Technology 09:11 The Impact of Competitive Bidding on Seniors 11:55 Advocacy Efforts and Legislative Challenges 14:57 The Future of GLP-1 Medications 17:56 Economic Implications of Diabetes Management 21:01 The Importance of Patient Advocacy 23:59 Healthcare Costs and Insurance Dynamics 26:56 The Need for Continued Advocacy 29:54 Conclusion and Call to Action