Mar 12, 2021 - News

Hundreds received affordable insulin under new Minnesota program

Torey Van Oot

Alec Smith's death after rationing his insulin inspired a new state law. Photo: Kerem Yucel/AFP via Getty Images

Hundreds of Minnesotans with diabetes received life-saving medication at low cost in the first six months of the state's new emergency insulin law, according to a new report from the Minnesota Board of Pharmacy.

The backdrop: The Alec Smith Insulin Affordability Act, which passed with bipartisan support last year, ensures access to a 30-day supply of insulin for a $35 co-pay. The cost of the long-term program is $50 every three months.

The goal of the bill, named after a 26-year-old who died after rationing his medicine, was to save people from risking their health over cost concerns.

By the numbers: More than 200 residents were able to access the 30-day supply.

Hundreds more enrolled in a program requiring manufacturers to provide insulin to low-income residents at reduced price for up to a year.
The bill, which the pharmaceutical industry is challenging in court, cost manufacturers more than $2 million between July and December 2020.

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Hundreds received affordable insulin under new Minnesota program

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