The management of diabetes is
progressively evolving. The latest medical and technological advances-including
ones involving the Internet-have begun providing the 18.2 million Americans
affected by this disease with the kind of freedom few dreamed of not all that
long ago.
Diabetes is a chronic condition
in which the body doesn't produce or properly use insulin, a hormone needed to
convert glucose into energy. Since over time the high blood sugar levels
associated with diabetes-the nation's fifth-leading cause of death by
disease-can lead to complications of the eyes, blood vessels, nerves, kidneys
and other organs, anything that would ease the typical daily regimen of insulin
injections and the like would be most welcome by patients.
According to experts at the
Mayo Clinic, that "simplification" is exactly what's happening. The
Food & Drug Administration, for example, is in the process of approving
both insulin patches and inhalants as alternative delivery methods to insulin
injections. Breakthroughs in blood glucose monitoring that would allow
continuous testing throughout the day are currently in development.
And then there's the Internet.
Unlike in the past, the latest advances, treatment and disease management
recommendations are now available on the Web sites of the American Diabetes
Association, the American Association of Diabetes Educators, and countless
others. Beyond that, people with diabetes are being helped in managing their
disease through the conve-nient online ordering of necessary diabetic supplies,
pharmaceuticals and equipment.
Better Living Now manages all
insurance claims and paperwork so patients don't have to. And they will contact
physicians for prescription renewal and fill necessary medical orders with up
to 90-day supplies. Members also receive special discounts when ordering online
and can contact the company's pharmacy with questions about their medication.
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