WESLACO – Ten percent of the U.S. population or 29 million people in the country have diabetes. One and a half million people are diagnosed every year.

Diabetes requires taking insulin in the form of an injection or pill.

Last year, CHANNEL 5 NEWS told you about a patch that releases insulin.

At that time, it was something in the works. Today, it’s becoming a reality.

“If they’re on pills, compliance is easier. But if they’re on shots before each meal, it’s difficult to comply,” said Endocrinologist Dr. Sung-Eun Yoo.

Doctors are starting to use an insulin treatment that is easier to administer. Now, there's no need for a cooler or needles.

It’s a V-Go insulin patch, a small waterproof patch on the body. That patch has to be changed every day.

“You push it, that’s where the needle penetrates your stomach, if you will, pretty painless really,” said Al Brown, a Type 2 diabetic.

The V-Go is covered by Medicare Part D, that’s the Medicare prescription drug benefit.

Doctors say a growing number of insurance companies are now covering the insulin patch.

No cure exists for diabetes but tesearchers are always working to find better ways to treat it.

The best way to keep from getting Type 2 diabetes is by eating healthy and staying active.