This week, Minnesota Senate Republicans announced the Minnesota Insulin Patient Assistance Program, a new plan to provide access to insulin for Minnesotans unable to afford its high cost. The program, which could be implemented as soon as January 1, 2020, would require insulin drug manufacturers to provide insulin to Minnesota doctors on behalf of eligible patients.

“This is a big step forward in our work to make sure Minnesotans have access to lifesaving medications such as insulin, even if they cannot afford it,” said Senator Jerry Relph (R-St. Cloud). “In fact, if all goes well, a special session could be called, and our plan could be implemented as soon as January 1.” 

To qualify, Minnesotans with diabetes must have a family income less than 400 percent of the federal poverty level and not be covered by another state or federal healthcare program such as Medicare, Medicaid, or MinnesotaCare. Qualified patients would work with their doctor’s office to acquire the free insulin from the manufacturers, fostering stronger doctor-patient relationships that will improve care.

Patients would use the MNsure portal to receive an eligibility statement for the program; MNsure would have five days to determine eligibility. Doctors would then use the patient eligibility statement to order a 120-day supply of insulin from the preferred manufacturer. Patients would remain eligible for the program for one year and would be allowed to reorder insulin during that time.

“This is a simple, workable plan that delivers insulin to Minnesotans who cannot afford it. Let’s call a quick special session and get this legislation signed into law,” said Senator Relph.

Senator Jerry Relph represents St. Cloud, Waite Park, St. Augusta, Haven Township, Minden Township, and St. Joseph Township in the Minnesota Senate.