Medicare and Diabetes in California: What Is Covered in 2026?
Diabetes is one of the most common health conditions among older adults in California, and managing it well costs money: meters, strips, insulin, doctor visits. The good news is that Medicare covers a large share of that cost, and in 2026 there is more protection than ever, especially for the price of insulin. This guide explains what Medicare covers for diabetes, what you pay, and how to use every benefit.
Diabetes Supplies: Part B
Medicare Part B covers the supplies you use to manage your blood sugar at home. After you meet the annual Part B deductible, you usually pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount. Covered supplies include:
- Your blood glucose meter
- Test strips and lancets
- The lancet device and control solution
- Insulin pump supplies, when medically necessary
The number of strips and lancets covered depends on whether you use insulin. People who use insulin usually receive more supplies per month. To understand which part of Medicare pays for what, see our guide to the parts of Medicare.
Insulin: The $35 Cap
This is the most important change in recent years. By federal law, your out-of-pocket cost for a one-month supply of each covered insulin is capped at $35 in Part D plans and in Medicare Advantage plans with drug coverage. There is also no deductible to pay first for insulin.
That means even if your plan has a deductible, insulin stays at $35 per month starting in January. If you use an insulin pump covered under Part B, that insulin also has the $35 cap. If you are paying more, it is worth a plan review.
Tip: If your insulin costs more than $35 a month, you may be in the wrong plan or the pharmacy may not be applying the benefit. A licensed agent can review your Part D plan at no cost.
Continuous Glucose Monitors
Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) have changed life for many people with diabetes. Instead of pricking your finger several times a day, a sensor measures your sugar automatically. Part B covers CGMs for many people who meet the medical requirements, such as those who use insulin or have had serious low blood sugar events. The monitor and sensors are covered as durable medical equipment, and you pay 20% after the deductible.
Education, Nutrition, and Foot Care
Medicare covers much more than devices. It also covers learning and prevention, which are the key to avoiding complications.
Self-management training
Medicare covers diabetes self-management training classes. You learn to check your sugar, adjust your meals, recognize warning signs, and care for your feet. It often has a low cost or no cost.
Medical nutrition therapy
If you have diabetes or kidney disease, Medicare covers sessions with a registered dietitian or nutritionist to build an eating plan. This therapy is often covered at no cost to you.
Foot exams and therapeutic shoes
Diabetes can damage the nerves in your feet. If you have that damage, Part B covers a foot exam every six months. It may also cover therapeutic shoes or special inserts for people with diabetes.
What Medicare Advantage Plans Add
Many Medicare Advantage plans in California include extra benefits that help people living with diabetes, such as wellness programs, transportation to appointments, healthy food allowances, and sometimes lower cost sharing on supplies. These extras vary by plan and county. To compare, see our guide to Medicare Advantage plans in California, and check how they affect your budget on our 2026 Medicare costs page.
Quick Summary
| Diabetes benefit | Medicare coverage |
|---|---|
| Meter, strips, and lancets | Part B, pay 20% after deductible |
| Insulin | $35 per month cap, no deductible |
| Continuous glucose monitor | Part B if you meet medical rules |
| Education and nutrition | Covered, often at no cost |
| Foot exam every 6 months | Covered with nerve damage |
Not sure your plan covers your diabetes well?
A licensed Medicare specialist can review your current plan, compare the cost of your insulin and supplies, and look for a better option in your county, at no cost to you.
Get a Free ReviewFrequently Asked Questions
Does Medicare cover diabetes supplies?
Yes. Part B covers your blood glucose meter, test strips, lancets, and control solution. After the Part B deductible, you usually pay 20% of the approved amount.
How much does insulin cost with Medicare in 2026?
Your out-of-pocket cost for a one-month supply of each covered insulin is capped at $35 in Part D plans and Medicare Advantage plans with drug coverage. There is no deductible for insulin.
Does Medicare cover a continuous glucose monitor?
Yes. Part B covers CGMs for many people with diabetes who meet the medical requirements, such as those who use insulin. They are covered as durable medical equipment.
Does Medicare cover foot exams for people with diabetes?
Yes. With nerve damage in the feet, Part B covers a foot exam every six months, and it may cover therapeutic shoes for people with diabetes.
One More Thought
Living with diabetes is already enough work. Overpaying should not be part of it. Between the $35 insulin cap, covered supplies, and free education classes, Medicare gives you real tools to stay healthy without draining your wallet. If a family member prefers to read this in Spanish, our sister site Beneficios Medicare covers the same topic in Spanish.