We live in a world where only 1 in 2 people have reliable access to the insulin they need. Over the past four years, the ACCISS Study has looked at access issues from multiple perspectives to gain a comprehensive understanding of the insulin landscape and factors impacting access. Through this ongoing research, we have gathered non-biased evidence and developed useful evidence-based tools to help decision-makers and others at both the global and national levels. Our objective is to increase access to affordable, quality-assured insulin for everyone who needs it.  

Diabetes is a complicated condition and there is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach to insulin treatment. Treatment choices are the decision of the user (or carer in the case of children) in consultation with a healthcare provider. However, the common factor of a lack of access and affordability is one that affects people living with diabetes the world over. The ACCISS Study continues to identify access barriers to both human and analogue insulin, and is working to ensure affordability for both users and national health systems. 

We now know that multiple factors lead to high insulin prices. These factors can be local, such as taxes, mark-ups and the organisation of the health system, and global, such as the domination of the insulin market by a limited number of companies. To address this global element, we advocate for increased competition in the insulin market. But all insulin products on the market must be quality-assured, whether originator brands or biosimilars. This is why it is essential to strengthen the regulatory assessment of insulin products.  

Further, we recognise that that while insulin is essential, it is not the only element required for successful diabetes treatment – access to supplies, diagnostic and monitoring tools, care and support are also critical. Our work will help governments and other stakeholders to ensure access to affordable quality-assured insulin, appropriate diabetes treatment and care those in need.

Find out more about the work of ACCISS here.