I usually steer clear of Donald Trump’s press conferences, as they often leave me frustrated. His comments can be shockingly ignorant, and his confrontational attitude toward the media is disheartening. However, a recent statement regarding insulin caught my attention and sparked significant concern.
During a press conference, Trump announced that starting next year, most Medicare beneficiaries would be able to purchase their insulin for $35 a month or less. This is promising news. With current insulin prices being exorbitantly high, I, as a type 1 diabetic who relies on insulin for survival, wholeheartedly support any efforts to reduce costs. However, what followed was alarming. Trump stated, “I don’t use insulin. Should I be? Huh? I never thought about it. But I know a lot of people are very, very badly affected, right? Unbelievable.” It’s troubling that the President of the United States is unsure about something so fundamental to diabetes management.
Sadly, I can’t say I’m surprised. Trump previously admitted to taking hydroxychloroquine, a drug intended for malaria treatment, without scientific backing regarding its effectiveness against the coronavirus. He’s even suggested bizarre treatments like injecting disinfectants and using ultraviolet light to fight COVID-19. Clearly, he is not a medical expert.
Later in the same conference, after Trump and Vice President Thompson praised their administration’s efforts, Surgeon General Wilson clarified Trump’s misunderstanding, explaining, “Your body, Mr. President, actually makes insulin naturally. People like you and I produce our own insulin. So, yes, we do utilize insulin, but we create it ourselves.” To which Trump replied, “Ah.”
As always, Trump managed to redirect the conversation back to himself, boasting about how insulin prices will “tumble down” for seniors, thanks to his administration’s efforts, contrasting it with what he termed Obama’s “crippling requirements.”
Let’s be clear: diabetes is not only a senior citizen issue. Individuals of all ages can be diagnosed with various forms of diabetes requiring insulin, including infants. I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at 24. While it’s great that seniors on Medicare will benefit from lower insulin prices, it’s evident that Trump’s motivations are not purely altruistic. He is leveraging this news to secure votes, all while conveniently blaming the Obama administration for the high insulin costs.
Trump emphasized, “This is a big day for seniors. This is a tremendous saving,” and further urged seniors to “remember it” during the upcoming elections. He is using insulin pricing as a political tool, reminiscent of a child fighting over the last piece of cake. The irony is palpable; he points fingers at previous administrations while ignoring the reality faced by millions living with diabetes.
In fact, diabetes is a serious issue, with many diabetics resorting to traveling to Canada for more affordable insulin. Over the past two decades, insulin prices have skyrocketed by 1000%, forcing many to ration their medication. For me, insulin is a non-negotiable necessity. Unfortunately, alternative treatments—be they shakes, supplements, or even dubious suggestions like disinfectants—will not suffice.
If insulin prices can be lowered for seniors, why not extend that relief to all diabetes patients? According to the CDC, approximately 34.2 million Americans live with diabetes. Of this number, 1.6 million have type 1 diabetes, and many depend on insulin for survival. The costs associated with diabetes management are alarmingly high; my insulin alone can cost $2400 for a three-month supply, not including additional necessities like my insulin pump or regular medical visits.
Surgeon General Wilson noted during the press conference that around seven million Americans are dependent on insulin. Yet, it seems that Trump’s focus is primarily on helping those he believes will vote for him, leaving countless others, including children with type 1 diabetes, feeling neglected.
The continued media coverage surrounding diabetes is often painful to witness, especially amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s disheartening that the leader of our nation can make flippant remarks about insulin while so many suffer the consequences of high costs and inadequate access to necessary medications.
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In summary, Trump’s lack of understanding about insulin and its significance to millions is alarming. His comments reflect a broader issue regarding the accessibility and affordability of essential medications. While some seniors may benefit from recent changes, the need for comprehensive solutions for all diabetes patients remains pressing.
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