What to Be Aware of with Blood Glucose Meters
Here is information to be aware of regarding BGMs:
- It’s important to check the expiration date of your test strips. A test strip’s ability to generate an accurate reading weakens after the expiration date.
- Store your BGM and test strips at room temperature and in dry spaces.
- Although most CGMs do not need calibration, some may require a BGM to calibrate the device.
Accessibility and Affordability of Glucose Monitors and Meters
Most insurance companies cover BGMs and test strips for their beneficiaries with diabetes. Depending on your insurance, there may be cost sharing and coverage limitations. Blood glucose monitoring is a very important part of diabetes management though, so be sure to discuss which options are the most appropriate for you with your health care provider.
Other Ways to Measure Blood Glucose
CGMs
CGMs, which use sensors on the skin, continually measure blood glucose levels and notify those who wear them if they are trending low or high so they can take corrective action. There may also be cost sharing and coverage limitations for CGMs depending on your insurance plan.
A1C Test
Beyond daily glucose checks with a CGM or BGM, another way your blood glucose (blood sugar) is measured is through an A1C test. An A1C test is a blood test that gives you a picture of your average blood glucose over the past two to three months. This test can show how well your diabetes treatment plan is working and helps your health care provider recommend changes to your diabetes management plan. Plan to get an A1C test every six months or more often, as recommended by your health care team.
A1C test results are given as a percentage and can be translated into mg/dL like your BGM and CGM. The American Diabetes Association recommends most non-pregnant adults with diabetes aim to have an A1C level of less than 7% or 154 mg/dL. This target can be different for each person based on a variety of factors, so talk to your health care provider about what your own A1C goal should be.
While an A1C test paints a broad picture of how well your diabetes treatment plan is working, CGMs or BGMs provide you with ongoing, daily readings to help you manage your diabetes day to day.
The Takeaway
There are a lot of factors to consider when determining which blood glucose monitoring method is right for you. Talk to your health care provider to determine what’s best for your lifestyle and treatment regimen.