TED Health Why the price of insulin is a danger to diabetics | Brooke Bennett
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Nov 5, 2024 Brooke Bennett, a passionate diabetes advocate, shares her poignant journey with type 1 diabetes and the harrowing reality of soaring insulin prices. She highlights the emotional and financial strain faced by those reliant on this life-saving drug, often leading to rationing. The discussion exposes the troubling landscape of U.S. prescription drug pricing, revealing shocking disparities compared to other countries. It also examines innovative solutions and systemic changes needed to ensure affordability and accessibility for chronic illness management.
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Frosty Denial
- Brooke Bennett craved a Wendy's Frosty but couldn't have it due to her recent type 1 diabetes diagnosis.
- She highlights the immediate impact of the disease on her life and dietary restrictions.
The Financial Burden of Diabetes
- Diabetes is expensive, with high costs for insulin pumps, infusion sites, and continuous glucose monitoring systems.
- Insulin, vital for life, costs significantly more than its production cost, adding a financial burden.
Insulin Vial Emergency
- Bennett recounts a stressful experience of shattering her last insulin vial on a Sunday night.
- This incident underscores the challenges and costs diabetics face when obtaining insulin outside of regular pharmacy hours.