Glucometer Types, Features, Guidelines, Results
Listen up. If you have vision problems, check out a glucometer with voice readout -- it will speak your reading.
Some meters with voice readout include the Advocate Redi-Code, Easy Max Voice, Element Plus, Fora (many models), and Prodigy.
Give it a test run. If you can, get your hands on a device before you buy it, so you'll know how it feels. Make sure the buttons are well-placed and easy to press.
If you have trouble picking up small things or have dexterity issues with your hands, using larger strips may be more comfortable.
A glucometer with an attached strip drum or disk may be easier to handle, too. You won't have to mess with those tiny, slippery test strips.
Watch for hidden costs. Don't forget to price the strips --a cheap or even a free glucometer can be costlier in the long run because the strips are so expensive. Make sure your insurance company will cover the strips for any device you choose.
Pass the test. Find out if the monitor tests itself to make sure it's accurate. If it doesn't self-test, you may occasionally use a control solution -- a testing liquid with a specific glucose level -- on a strip to make sure it's working correctly. Also, find out if the meter needs to be cleaned, and how.
Time's a wastin'. Make sure you don't have to enter a code or special key when changing test strips. That's a hassle you don't need.
To get a sense what glucose meter will suit you best -- and what data or design will help most -- ask your doctor or diabetes educator for advice.
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Listen up. If you have vision problems, check out a glucometer with voice readout -- it will speak your reading.
Some meters with voice readout include the Advocate Redi-Code, Easy Max Voice, Element Plus, Fora (many models), and Prodigy.
Give it a test run. If you can, get your hands on a device before you buy it, so you'll know how it feels. Make sure the buttons are well-placed and easy to press.
If you have trouble picking up small things or have dexterity issues with your hands, using larger strips may be more comfortable.
A glucometer with an attached strip drum or disk may be easier to handle, too. You won't have to mess with those tiny, slippery test strips.
Watch for hidden costs. Don't forget to price the strips --a cheap or even a free glucometer can be costlier in the long run because the strips are so expensive. Make sure your insurance company will cover the strips for any device you choose.
Pass the test. Find out if the monitor tests itself to make sure it's accurate. If it doesn't self-test, you may occasionally use a control solution -- a testing liquid with a specific glucose level -- on a strip to make sure it's working correctly. Also, find out if the meter needs to be cleaned, and how.
Time's a wastin'. Make sure you don't have to enter a code or special key when changing test strips. That's a hassle you don't need.
To get a sense what glucose meter will suit you best -- and what data or design will help most -- ask your doctor or diabetes educator for advice.
FREE iPhone App: Get Help to Control Your Blood Sugar
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