Want to see those tips in action?
A constituent received an e-mail (for which they were subscribed) from their U.S. Representative touting “I Support Lower Prices for Insulin,” boldly across the top. The e-mail went on to give reasons why they voted against a recent bill that would have lowered insulin prices for Seniors and linked to their own piece of legislation that they believe would tackle the problem in a better way.
Here’s a screen grab of that e-mail:
On the surface, that sounds great, right? They co-sponsored legislation to lower drug costs! The constituent clicked, excitedly! What they found, is that this legislation was introduced two years ago, in the previous session of Congress, and went nowhere.
Another example of all talk, no action. Disappointment seeped in and so, they wrote their Congressperson and shared their concerns and personal connection to this issue. Here is what they had to say:
Dear Representative _________
[Tip 1: Know Your Audience]
I am writing in response to your March 29, 2024 e-mail regarding insulin prices. While I appreciate your stated dedication to lowering insulin prices, I question the sincere effort you are putting into this issue.
[Tip 2: Stay Focused]
I see the legislation you referenced, Lower Costs, More Cures Act, was from the last session of Congress. I assume it “died” in committee (as so many bills do), as clearly the cost of insulin continues to rise for the average American with diabetes.
[Tips 3/4: Keep it Professional/Relate on a Personal Level]
My husband has had Type 1 Diabetes for more than 20 years. You can read his story here – A Story of Being Human: A Diabetic in America I hope you’ll read it.
My husband and I both know, first-hand the implications of overpriced insulin and other diabetes related care. In fact, my husband recently started a new job and was faced with the reality of paying nearly $1000 for a three month-supply of just one type of his insulin (he requires two types) he needs to survive.
This is to say nothing of the quarterly doctor visits and annual blood panels, costs of needles, or the continuous glucose monitor, that he must now switch to as mandated by his insurance coverage. He and his doctor’s prescribed plan of care is left to the whims of insurance companies and drug makers. We, ordinary citizens, are left with the excruciating financial toll of these whims.
[Tip 5: Stick to the Facts]
Did you know that the vast majority of people who ration insulin, due to high costs (and therefore put their long-term health at risk) are under the age of 65? While the recent changes to Medicare pricing are to be celebrated, there remains a huge portion of Americans that continue to struggle with the costs of insulin.
[Tips 6/7: Use a Respectful Tone/Stay in the Loop]
What are you doing NOW, this session of Congress, to alleviate this very real burden? What are you doing to educate the more extreme members of Congress on the toll of Diabetes, when left untreated?
I do sense sincerity in your efforts to improve life in America for (hopefully) the majority. I think we can both agree that ensuring long-term health outcomes for those with lifelong disease will benefit all of society and it’s time to come together on this issue.
Thank you for your time!
Are you subscribed to your legislators e-mail lists (even the ones you disagree with)? If not, that’s step one, find your members of Congress.
Keep tabs on them. Hold them accountable. Pay attention to what they say and how they say it. Be your own advocate!
New Horizons Un-Limited 
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