Expiring Federal Funding for Diabetes Program Threatens Health of Native Americans Nationwide

WASHINGTON – A critical federal program that has significantly reduced diabetes rates among Native American communities faces expiration at the end of the year, with Congress yet to take action. Diabetes rates among Native Americans are disproportionately high—27% of Indigenous adults in Arizona have diabetes compared to 10% of White adults—highlighting the urgency of continued support for the program, which provides treatment, prevention, and education services. Without renewal, tribal health programs, many of which rely almost entirely on federal funding, risk severe disruption, impacting thousands of Native Americans across the country and reversing public health gains made since the program’s inception in 1997.

The Special Diabetes Program for Indians has proven its effectiveness, contributing to a historic 5% decrease in diabetes rates from 2013 to 2017 after decades of increases. However, since its last long-term renewal in 2004, the program has received only short-term extensions, creating instability that hinders effective management and deters qualified staff. Advocates like Caitrin McCarron Shuy from the National Indian Health Board warn that the loss of this funding would be devastating to tribal communities, leading to setbacks in public health and increased costs for advanced diabetes care.

Public health experts, including Darin Prescott of the IHS Division of Diabetes Treatment and Prevention, emphasize that predictable, long-term funding is crucial for sustained progress and stability. The program currently saves an estimated $88,000 per person by preventing progression from Type 2 diabetes to more severe complications, such as end-stage renal disease, preserving countless lives. Without action from Congress, Native American communities stand to lose one of the most impactful public health programs supporting their fight against diabetes.

Source: https://odphp.health.gov/