Lakewood State Senator Trying To Cap Cost Of Insulin

LAKEWOOD, OH — State Senator Nickie Antonio, from Lakewood, saw parts of her proposal to combat diabetes pass through the Senate Health, Human Service & Medicaid Committee this week. The legislation would establish Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) Day and encourage Asian Americans to be screened for type 2 diabetes.

“I am very appreciative of those who came in to testify and share their stories of loss and near loss of loved ones due to complications of DKA,” said Antonio. “We all know someone living with diabetes, but continued awareness can and will save lives.”

Diabetic Ketoacidosis is a condition which causes the body to produce excess blood acids, which can be life threatening, according to the Mayo Clinic.

The legislation, called the Insulin Affordability Act, was co-sponsored by Antonio and State Senator Hearcel Craig, a Democrat from Columbus. Two parts of the legislative package have yet to pass through committee hearings. Those portions of the bill would allow the Ohio Attorney General to investigate the price of insulin and would cap the price of insulin at $100 for a 30-day dosage. Neither proposal has received a hearing yet.

About 25-percent of Americans with type 1 or 2 diabetes have admitted to using less insulin than their doctors prescribed because of the cost of the medication. More than a third of diabetes patients said they did not discuss rationing their insulin with their doctor, Yale University found in a study.

“Diabetes poses very serious health risks but it can be managed by ensuring patients have access to high-quality, affordable health care,” said Craig. “The skyrocketing cost of insulin has made it difficult for many Ohioans to afford treatment and stay healthy. Raising awareness about the prevention and treatment of diabetes can help save lives and advance the conversation about the importance of affordability.”