Choosing the Right Testing Strip and Meter Combination


Diabetes is a condition that lasts a lifetime. There are numerous factors to consider when you are diagnosed with this disorder. Your lifestyle choices, diet, and exercise habits have an impact on your blood glucose levels and health. Failing to keep your blood sugar levels in check can lead to significant health complications.

Whereas diabetic patients are advised to stay in touch with their doctors concerning their blood glucose medications, having proper diabetic testing supplies for self-monitoring is also important. Fully understanding the choices one has for testing supplies allows one to feel comfortable when it comes to the accuracy of your blood sugar readings. Furthermore, having a prior understanding of the proper usage of diabetic testing supplies and medications is essential.

How to Choose the Right Diabetic Testing Supplies

The accuracy of testing supplies that you are using determines how well you can manage and control your diabetes. Poorly kept testing supplies can potentially produce inaccurate readings, which in turn results in inadequate diabetic care. You MUST have the appropriate blood glucose meter and testing strips(maintained at a temperature consistent with the requirements in the manual) to manage and keep your diabetes under control.

Diabetic testing supplies come in several different brands. Opting for the right one enables you to manage this lifelong condition and stay healthy.Below are tips to help you determine what diabetic testing supplies are suitable for your health.

Consider the Size and Shape of Test Strips

It would be wise to emphasize the size and shape of the test strips because these can have a considerable influence on your overall user experience. Test strips with a curved shape create an expansive surface area for blood to collect. Similarly, smaller test strips usually require less blood to generate an accurate reading, while larger ones need more blood in that regard. Experiment With Different Test Strip Brands
Consult your diabetes specialist for recommendations on the right types of test strips to buy. Ask your diabetes doctor for sample test strips so that you can try different brands. Experimenting with a variety of test strips is worthwhile as it gives you an idea of all the alternatives out there.

Cost and Insurance Coverage

Insurance coverage for testing supplies is contingent upon your preferred provider. At this point, communicating with your insurance provider and making an inquiry on the types of testing supplies covered is helpful. Your insurance company could either recommend a specific set of testing supplies or reimburse a percentage of the dollar amount for generic supplies which you choose. Thus, this may impact your choice of glucose meter and test strips.

Wicking Technology Inspection

The best blood sugar test strips will rapidly absorb blood for an accurate measurement. Test strips vary as far as the wicking technology used is concerned. Trying a few test strips is imperative to help you get a sense of what is suitable for your preferences.

User Experience Evaluation

It would be useful to evaluate your user experience for several glucose meters at the point of purchase. Diabetes causes a lot of problems, such as blurred vision, numbness, and coordination problems among other. Keep these symptoms in your mind whenever you are choosing or buying a glucose meter. Choose a meter that comes with large buttons along with a sizeable screen.

Lastly, it is imperative to note that there are no right or wrong diabetic testing supplies(unless they are inaccurate). The process of choosing a strip/meter brand depends on your individual needs, including such things as lifestyle and budget. The search for testing supplies takes a few tries, but you will eventually settle on the right combination that meets your requirements.

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