Connect with others who understand.

Sign up Log in
Resources
About DiabetesTeam
Powered By
Real members of DiabetesTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Testing Supplies

A DiabetesTeam Member asked a question 💭
Eden, NC

I’m wondering what type of testing supplies y’all are using. I’ve used all kinds, but after 6 years of working at my local Walmart pharmacy (I’m not working right now, but was working for Ruger, the gun manufacturer, before the cancer), I learned about Relion brand supplies.

At first I started using Relion Prime, which worked just as well for me as did the more expensive brands (your doctor will give you a meter for free, but the test strips are outrageous). After comparing them side by side… read more

August 16, 2020 (edited)
View reactions
A DiabetesTeam Member

@A DiabetesTeam Member, absolutely, insurance is a Godsend! I had to come out of work after the chemo-spurred neuropathy caused me to not be able to do my job - and being without insurance, even for a few months, is devastating. The insurance that I have now pays 100% for generics, and my copay for brand is $30 - MUCH better than full price!

August 16, 2020
A DiabetesTeam Member

I do not know about Ontario pricing, but for me I buy my strips online at Diabetes Express, needles I have so many as I had bought a lot before using the Libre, so I am stocked up on those.

Their customer service is awesome also, usually receive supplies within 2 days, but with covid it has changed a bit but if I order Monday by Friday usually it is here. I once ordered a meter along with extra strips and they only sent me the 100 strips that came with the meter, I called and 2 days later I had the missing 100 sent to me no extra cost. For me the strips are less then sold in pharmacies here in Quebec. They are also the only ones who have those precision strips that you can use on the Libre scanner machine (Usually people use the blood port to check if accuracy with the Libre, but you can use as a meter also. My Libre meter matches what my true blood tests were on the day they were drawn and were between 0.2 to 0.5 from Libre readings. So I now use my Libre meter, I only use the other ones if I run out of strips or to test Arm or Nathan which is rare. Here is their links. They also sell other diabetes supplies and Libre accessories.

https://diabetesexpress.ca/

August 16, 2020
A DiabetesTeam Member

I used Relion before getting my Medicare, never had any problem, but my Medicare has sent me a free meter and strips ever 3 months. Thank you for passing the info on about the insulin, I'm glad something has been done about the outrageous price, as that is a life saving medication.

July 26
A DiabetesTeam Member

Here is some information about testing supplies for blood glucose monitoring based on the knowledge base:

- Types of Monitors: Blood glucose monitors can test both blood and urine samples for glucose, although blood tests are more accurate. Some monitors only take blood from a finger stick, while others can take it from Show Full Answer

Here is some information about testing supplies for blood glucose monitoring based on the knowledge base:

- Types of Monitors: Blood glucose monitors can test both blood and urine samples for glucose, although blood tests are more accurate. Some monitors only take blood from a finger stick, while others can take it from various sources.
- Cost and Insurance: The cost and your health insurance program may limit what type of blood glucose testing monitor you can choose. If you have health insurance, your plan may cover the cost of monitors, test strips, and lancets.
- Testing Strips: Make sure whatever monitor you choose has affordable testing strips.
- Continuous Blood Glucose Monitoring: If you use an insulin pump, your doctor may recommend continuous blood glucose monitoring. This involves a sticky patch with a tiny needle worn on the skin and a small electronic recording device. Continuous monitors are more expensive and less accurate than traditional testing.
- Ketone Testing Kits: If your type 2 diabetes is poorly controlled, your doctor may recommend that you test your urine for ketones. Ketone testing kits are available at pharmacies.

For more details, you can visit the following resources:
- Blood Sugar Testing: When, Why, and How — Mayo Clinic
- The Big Picture: Checking Your Blood Glucose — American Diabetes Association

Remember to consult with your healthcare team for personalized advice and instructions.

July 26
A DiabetesTeam Member

I use accu chek but my insurance covers it 100% so i have no charge. This is good info for those that have no insurance or too jigh of a copay

August 17, 2020

Related content

View All

Hi Have Any Of You Have Problems With Getting Your Testing Supplies.?

A DiabetesTeam Member asked a question 💭
Massachusetts

Where Do You Get Diabetic Supplies

A DiabetesTeam Member asked a question 💭
Austin, TX

Problem Getting Glucose Test Supplies

A DiabetesTeam Member asked a question 💭
Fort Worth, TX
Continue with Facebook
Continue with Google
By joining, you accept our Terms of Use, and acknowledge our collection, sharing, and use of your data in accordance with our Health Data Policy and Privacy policies.Your privacy is our priority Lock Icon
Already a Member? Log in