MILPITAS, Calif., November 15, 2001 - More than 10 million Americans have been diagnosed with diabetes, and about 4.2 million of them have Medicare coverage. Unfortunately, many of these patients may not be aware of their Medicare benefits. In addition, many do not get the products their doctors recommend because it's possible for testing supply distributors to switch patients to other products. To help patients receive the blood glucose monitoring products recommended for them, LifeScan, a Johnson & Johnson company, is offering healthcare professionals a free kit outlining important Medicare benefit information. The kit includes information on coverage benefits that healthcare professionals should know about, as well as informational tear sheets to provide to patients.

In summary, the Medicare information is as follows:

• All diabetes patients with Medicare Part B have coverage for blood glucose meters, test strips, lancets, and other testing supplies, regardless of whether or not they use insulin. Coverage is subject, of course, to certain conditions, limitations and co-pays.
  
• While a doctor's prescription is required, Medicare covers all brands of blood glucose testing supplies, regardless of the manufacturer.
  
• To be sure that patients get the specific product recommended, healthcare professionals should indicate "Do Not Substitute" or "Dispense as Written" on the prescription.

"These information kits will be beneficial to all healthcare professionals treating people with diabetes who are covered by Medicare," said Linda Hillier, Senior Marketing Manager at LifeScan. "Because this information clearly explains the facts related to Medicare coverage as it relates to diabetes products, people can learn their rights -- and in turn -- receive the products that they want and that are recommended by their healthcare professionals."

Healthcare professionals who would like to receive the free Medicare information kit can call LifeScan at 1 800 227-8862.

LifeScan, a leading maker of blood glucose monitoring products, is dedicated to improving the quality of life for people with diabetes. More diabetes specialists recommend the company's OneTouch® Blood Glucose Monitoring Systems than any other brand. Every day, more than three million people rely on OneTouch® Systems for simple testing and accurate results. For healthcare professional resources, and for information about diabetes care and LifeScan products and services, visit www.LifeScan.com.

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