Does a diabetic have to get blood only from finger?

No, diabetics do not have to get blood only from their fingers. While fingertip blood glucose testing is the most common method, there are other options available, such as:

- Alternate site testing: This involves taking a blood sample from a site other than the finger, such as the forearm, palm, or thigh. Alternate site testing can be more comfortable and less painful than fingertip testing, especially for people who have sensitive fingertips.

- Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM): This device measures glucose levels in the interstitial fluid (fluid between cells) every few minutes and transmits the data to a receiver or smart device. CGM does not require fingertip blood testing, but it may require a fingertip blood test for calibration purposes.

- Flash glucose monitoring: This device is similar to CGM but it does not provide real-time glucose readings. Instead, it takes a glucose measurement every 5 minutes and stores the data, which can be viewed on a compatible device. Flash glucose monitoring requires a fingertip blood test for calibration once every 12 hours.

The choice of blood glucose testing method depends on individual preferences and needs, as well as the recommendations of the person's healthcare provider.