Diabetes is a disease in which the body cannot use insulin to convert sugar into energy. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of the disease, affecting nearly 26 million Americans. Although Type 2 diabetes is a common disorder, your treatment plan must be customized for your own special needs. Exercise is an essential part of managing diabetes, so you must know the major programs that help pay for Type 2 diabetes exercise programs.
State Diabetes Control Programs
State diabetes programs educate diabetics about the management of diabetes through diet, medication and exercise programs. State diabetes programs are often managed by state health departments; they coordinate diabetic exercise programs through local YMCAs, diabetes education centers and healthcare system-based programs. Each state operates its diabetes program differently, so check with your health department for details. By participating in a state diabetes program, you gain access to recreational and healthcare facilities that offer state-funded reimbursements for diabetic exercise programs.
Medicare
Medicare is a major medical insurance program for American citizens over the age of 65, individuals under 65 with certain disabilities and any individual with end-stage renal disease. Medicare covers diabetic supplies, prescriptions, screenings and regular physical exams. In addition, long-term and newly diagnosed diabetic patients are often eligible for entrance into a diabetes management program, including visits with a Medicare-certified dietitian and exercise physiologist. You must provide a doctor's order to join a Medicare-certified exercise program for diabetes, and the program must also be certified by the American Diabetes Association, which sets the criteria for diabetic management programs.
Medicaid
Medicaid is a program supported by the state and federal government that provides health care insurance for low-income families and individuals with disabilities. Each state sets its own guidelines for Medicaid benefit eligibility in accordance with federal regulations. Some people are covered by both Medicaid and Medicare insurance. Each state chooses what optional services they will cover, so check with your state Medicaid office to see if your state provides coverage for Type 2 diabetes exercise programs. Exercise programs help improve blood sugar levels, reduce diabetic medications and lessen the long-term effects of diabetes, so many Medicaid programs now reimburse for Type 2 diabetes exercise programs.
Contraindications
Many people with diabetes have other serious health issues, due to the damaging effects of the disease. Physical activity can be dangerous for some diabetics, because diabetes increases your risk of heart disease, kidney failure, vision disorders and other diseases. Because of possible complications, you must see your physician for a complete physical exam to confirm you're well enough for physical activity. Most insurance companies require a doctor's prescription to cover Type 2 diabetes exercise programs, so see your physician before signing up for any diabetic program. Call your insurance provider and ask for a list of approved diabetes exercise programs in your area.
References
- American Academy of Family Physicians; Diabetes and Exercise; October 2010
- American Diabetes Association: State Diabetes Control Programs
- Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services; Medicare Coverage of Diabetes Supplies and Services; November 2008
- Medicare.com; Obesity and Weight Loss Coverage; 2008
