If you've recently been diagnosed with diabetes, you're probably imagining a life that is about to be turned upside down. While there are a number of new things you'll need to learn about diet, exercise and medications, one of the most important will be how to monitor your blood glucose and how to buy the best one for your needs. The good news is that there are literally dozens on the market that are affordable and easy to use.
Step 1
Call your medical insurance company to find out which blood glucose meters are covered under your insurance plan. Some carriers cover all models, while other cover very few. Since glucose meters range in price from $20 to over $100, know which model best fits your budget. Also, consider how long the meter will last. You may need to replace it every two to three years.
Step 2
Ask about the long-term costs of operating the meter. When you're first diagnosed or if you change your medications, you may need to test your blood five or six times a day. Many of the strips used with common glucose meters can cost as much as $1 each. There are also other supplies that you'll need to purchase like control fluid (used to calibrate your meter), alcohol swabs, lancets and batteries. All of these items add up over time. You may be able to save money by purchasing a different type of monitor.
Step 3
Look at the meter display without your reading glasses. It doesn't how many features the meter has, if you can't interpret the readout, the meter is useless. There are often times when you don't have access to your reading glasses or you're trying to read the meter in low light, so the display should be easy to read.
Step 4
Make sure that the meter is easy to use and has large buttons. If you can't remember how to use it or your fingers are too large to operate it, you've just bought an expensive key fob. Many people with arthritis find doing even the simplest things challenging because of limited dexterity.
Step 5
Choose a model with extra features that will make it easier to keep track of your blood glucose readings. The least expensive models will display your current blood glucose level and nothing else. More expensive models will remember up to 500 glucose readings and display them at the touch of a button. This can be handy when sharing your treatment progress with your physician. Some of the more expensive models can be connected to your home PC, where you can download the results and print graphs and charts of your glucose management.
Step 6
Choose a model that doesn't require that you prick the end of your finger tips. Newer models require less blood than older models and will test blood from a variety of places like your forearm or thigh. They're also faster. Older models used to take up to two minutes to generate a reading. Newer glucose meters will display your glucose readings in a matter of seconds.
Tips and Warnings
- Check with your insurance company for reimbursement of the meter and supplies before you buy. Look for meters that are fast, lightweight and easy to use.
- Avoid meters that need constant calibration. Consider the cost of test strips, batteries and lancets into the total purchase price of the meter.
Things You'll Need
- Copy of your medical insurance plan
- Strict budget in mind
- Allowance for extra medical supplies
