I’m Living with a Chronic Illness — and Health Insurance Companies Hold the Power

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Managing a chronic illness demands an immense amount of patience, adaptability, and determination. My perspective on this struggle is unique because, in addition to being a type 1 diabetic, I also work in healthcare.

When first diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, no one prepares you for the additional burden of navigating the healthcare system to secure coverage for your essential medications on top of the relentless finger pricks, carb counting, and injections. As a healthcare professional, I’m all too familiar with the concept of prior authorization, where insurance companies require providers to justify why a specific treatment or medication is necessary over their preferred options.

Given my own experiences, I advocate fiercely for my patients to get their medications covered. Sometimes my efforts succeed, but unfortunately, there are times when they don’t. I learned what prior authorization was before I could even tie my shoes—no joke.

For instance, every year I have to jump through hoops to secure prior approvals for all my medications. This year, my insurance decided not to cover my insulin pump, which I’ve relied on for over five years. The lengthy denial letter sent to my endocrinologist suggested substituting my device with one intended for type 2 diabetes management—despite my never having been diagnosed with type 2. How is that a reasonable alternative?

I often ponder how someone without my medical knowledge would navigate these hurdles. Would they even know to challenge the proposed substitutes? Would they simply accept what the insurance company suggests, despite it being inappropriate for their condition? Why do insurance companies believe they have the authority to make medical decisions that should be left to experienced healthcare professionals?

While I am grateful for health insurance—without it, a 25-day supply of insulin would cost me $349.48—it’s clear that the current system is broken. It complicates my job as a healthcare provider and contributes to burnout for those managing chronic illnesses. There have been moments, especially after lengthy hold times with insurance companies, where I’ve felt like giving up on being a diabetic altogether. The mental fatigue is overwhelming, fueled not just by the disease itself but also by the hours spent grappling with insurance bureaucracy.

Customer service representatives often bear the brunt of my frustration, even though they’re just following scripts and likely don’t understand my specific needs.

I may not have all the answers, but I am determined to advocate for my patients and myself until a cure for type 1 diabetes is found.

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In summary, managing a chronic illness like type 1 diabetes is not just about treatment; it’s about navigating a complex healthcare system often dominated by insurance companies. The struggle is real, and advocacy is crucial for both patients and providers.

Keyphrase: Living with a chronic illness and health insurance

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