Insulin affordability remains a challenge despite US policy changes

Despite legislative efforts and drugmaker announcements, insulin remains unaffordable for many Americans. While the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act capped monthly costs at $35 for Medicare beneficiaries, these protections do not extend to all populations, leaving many to ration doses to manage costs.

Research indicates that state-level interventions are having a measurable impact. As of 2026, 29 states have implemented insulin copayment caps for state-regulated commercial health insurance plans. A study from Clemson University found that diabetics in states with these caps are 2.37 percentage points more likely to utilize insulin than those in states without them.

Furthermore, the study noted significant health improvements in capped states, including a 20% decrease in poor mental health days per month and a 15.5% annual increase in A1C checks. These findings suggest that cost barriers continue to suppress optimal insulin use in states lacking such protections.