Free insulin for life: A shot in the arm for diabetics

The problem for many underpaid diabetic Filipinos is where to get the cash for the next vial of insulin. Although many of us take good health for granted, roughly four million Filipinos suffer from diabetes mellitus. "The incidence of diabetes has been growing throughout the years," says Dr. Rosa Allyn G. Sy, president of the Philippine Society of Endocrinology and Metabolism (PSEM), "and unhealthy diets and lifestyles are partly to blame.

Diabetes is a disease characterized by the body’s inability to metabolize macronutrients, and stems from insufficient or defective insulin produced by the pancreas. Since sugar is not converted into energy, blood glucose levels become elevated. This results in chronic damage to tissues and cells, eventually leading to complications such as renal disease, cardiovascular disease, nerve damage, and even blindness. While oral medication is sufficient to manage the condition in some cases, injections of insulin are required for others. And thus, the gift of free insulin for life is a welcome blessing.

Starting next year, PSEM and Eli Lilly and Company will provide insulin vials and syringes for life to two eligible patients. Unlike traditional drug programs that deliver drugs through hospitals or other third-party distribution organizations, Lilly insulins will be delivered or dispensed directly to patients by their physicians. This was announced at the 2007 annual convention of PSEM at Sofitel Philippine Plaza recently.

Who are eligible to qualify for free insulin for life?

Dr. Sy says that patients must require insulin treatment for maintenance, be Filipino citizens, provide proof of income within the program guidelines, and have no private or public prescription coverage. Additionally, a PSEM member should nominate the patients, and the PSEM board of directors, Lilly president, and a representative from the DSWD will ensure that eligibility guidelines are followed.

While only two patients will be getting free insulin for life initially, Eli Lilly (Philippines) Inc. president and general manager Meny C. Hernandez stresses that this is a long-term commitment that the company will support. "Our drugs are innovative and there are new therapies, so we are looking into that. The industry is evolving, but what matters most is the high quality (of medications) we give the patients. We are going to support two patients initially, but just as in building a new bridge, we start with the first block and build on from there," he says. 

Ask your endocrinologist about the Free Insulin For Life program of the PSEM and Eli Lilly.