Blood sugar meters, also known as blood glucose monitors, provide diabetic patients with the ability to check blood sugar throughout the day to manage and control their disease. Manufacturers frequently offer free blood sugar meters to diabetic patients as a way to introduce their brand of products. Free meters often come with a small vial of test strips and a packet of lancets to get the patient started. Offers for free meters constantly change, but the method to obtain one is the same.
Step 1
Contact the manufacturer directly to inquire if the company is currently offering free meters. Many companies advertise their free meters online, but if you don’t have access to a computer, representatives will assist you over the phone. As of July 2010, companies offering free meters include OneTouch, Bayer and FreeStyle.
Step 2
Visit your local pharmacy to inquire about free meter offers. Manufacturers often send information regarding free meters to local pharmacies for advertisement. Pharmacies also may run their own promotion to give free meters to patients.
Step 3
Answer a series of questions to determine your eligibility. These questions include whether you are diabetic, or if you care for someone who is, when you were diagnosed, how many times a day you test your blood sugar and what type of meter you currently use. Income level is not a stipulation to receive a free meter in most cases.
Step 4
Choose the color of meter you prefer if the company offers their free meters in different colors.
Step 5
Obtain your free meter either by printing a coupon to take to the pharmacy to redeem, or wait for your meter to arrive by mail if shipped directly from the manufacturer. Coupons redeemed at a local pharmacy may require a prescription from a physician in addition to the coupon. If this is the case, the coupon will indicate the need for a valid prescription.
