Omnipod^® producer Insulet announced today that it would expand its financial assistance program to those U.S. customers who had lost insurance in the wake of changes due to the coronavirus pandemic. For those who qualify, the company will provide a six-month supply (60 Pods) of product for free.

Those customers who might benefit must meet several financial criteria, including having lost their jobs and insurance because of COVID-19, and having not current coverage by Medicaid or any other insurance. The program expansion will run through December 31, 2020. Those seeking the financial support can contact the Insulet Customer Care team at 1 (800) 591-3455 and select Option 2 for assistance.

This step follows similar recent insulin cost-cutting measures instituted by Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly and Company. Novo Nordisk has offered 90 days of free insulin to those who lost their jobs and insurance because of coronavirus. Eli Lilly and Company offered a co-pay card to anyone with, or without, insurance to purchase a one-month supply of insulin from the company for $35 or less during the pandemic.

JDRF welcomes the efforts, but more is needed. JDRF strongly urges other companies to follow suit, and provide assistance to those in need it. On top of concerns about coronavirus, no one should need to worry about having a steady supply of life-sustaining insulin.

Please visit our site for more information about how to manage T1D during the COVID-19 pandemic, and take a look at other resources to help pay for insulin and other prescriptions.