How the Court of Auditors wants to reform diabetes care to save money

The Court of Auditors calls for reform of diabetes care. It denounces an increase in cases and related expenses, but "health outcomes that are stagnating." In 10 years, spending has increased by almost 35%. That represents more than 10 billion euros.

The Court of Auditors suggests differentiating between patients with diabetes. Currently, they benefit from the long-term illness scheme, the ALD (Area of ​​Long Term Illness), which provides comprehensive coverage for healthcare costs. The judges recommend creating two levels of ALD. Patients with the least illness would no longer be systematically reimbursed, but would instead be encouraged to exercise more and eat better.

"It is estimated that a large proportion of type 2 diabetes cases could be avoided through lifestyle changes," says Faïza Bossy, a general practitioner specializing in nutrition.

"Reforming diabetes care, prevention, yes of course, but above all without making people feel guilty," she adds.

Because for disadvantaged populations, who are very affected by diabetes as the Court of Auditors points out, these recommendations are sometimes out of reach: no access to quality food, for example.

The doctor also fears delays in the treatment of patients who would need drug treatment anyway, but who would not benefit from it due to a lack of reimbursement.