Diabetes Care Costs

Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects millions of people around the world. According to the International Diabetes Federation, one in every 10 people suffers from diabetes. In 2021, 44,000 Filipinos died from diabetes mellitus - a 22 percent increase from the previous year.

Optimal diabetes care can prevent fatalities, but it requires a comprehensive approach that includes regular medical check-ups, healthy lifestyle changes, and self-monitoring of blood sugar levels. While the cost of optimal diabetes care can vary depending on the individual's needs, it is important to be aware of the potential expenses involved so that you can make informed decisions about your health care.

The Cost of Regular Medical Check-Ups 

One of the most important aspects of optimal diabetes care is regular medical check-ups. These check-ups allow your physician to monitor your progress, identify any potential complications, and make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. 

The cost of a doctor's visit can range from PHP 500-1,500. 

The Cost of Healthy Lifestyle Changes 

Making healthy lifestyle changes is another important part of optimal diabetes care. Eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise can help you manage your blood sugar levels and prevent complications associated with diabetes. 

While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to healthy eating, the Philippine Heart Association recommends a diet that is low in saturated fat, trans fat, cholesterol, salt (sodium), and added sugar; and has high-fiber meal plans with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. They also recommend at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity on most days of the week. 

The cost of healthy lifestyle changes will vary depending on your individual needs and preferences. For example, if you need to purchase special diabetic foods or join a gym to get regular exercise, these costs should be factored into your overall budget for optimal diabetes care. These typically cost P300 a meal or P2,000 per gym subscription.

The Cost of Self-Monitoring Blood Sugar Levels 

Self-monitoring blood sugar levels is another essential component of optimal diabetes care. Checking your blood sugar levels helps you and your doctor determine if your current treatment plan is working effectively and makes it possible to adjust your treatment as needed. Depending on the severity of your diabetes, you may need to test anywhere from one to five times a day. The cost of blood sugar test strips varies depending on the brand and type that you use; however, test strips typically cost between PHP 20-50 per strip. 

You should also consider adopting healthy lifestyle habits such as:

• Maintain a balanced diet, including plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains while cutting out sugary foods and beverages

• Limit carbohydrates

• Take prescribed medication as directed

• Quit smoking and/or drinking

• Monitor blood sugar daily

Making healthy lifestyle changes and self-monitoring blood sugar levels are essential components of optimal diabetes care; both can be done at relatively low cost compared to other aspects of treatment such as medication or insulin therapy, which costs a minimum of PHP 500 per dose. Regular medical check-ups are also important for optimal diabetes care; however, the cost of these visits can be covered by insurance in some cases. 

Ultimately, the best way to keep costs associated with optimal diabetes care manageable is to work with a team of health care professionals who can help you create a treatment plan that meets your individual needs and budget constraints.

Top health providers specializing in diabetes care and maintenance

• St. Luke’s Medical Center

• Philippine General Hospital

• FEU Hospital

• UST Hospital

• Manilamed (Medical Center Manila)

• Makati Medical Center

• Chong Hua Hospital

Invest in your health, and yourself, by taking out a health insurance plan. With a health insurance plan, you get a financial safety net so you can receive the best diabetes care possible. Talk to a InLife Financial Advisor today to get started.