How do I Purchase a Glucometer?

Diabetics use glucometers, also called blood glucose meters, to measure their blood sugar level. You can buy glucometers at a drugstore, through your pharmacy or online, but there are several factors to consider before choosing the glucometer that's right for you.

Basics

• Most glucometers work in the same way. You place a test strip in the device, prick your finger with a needle and then touch the other end of the test strip to the blood.

Features

• Glucometers vary in size, so consider how portable you want your glucometer to be. Glucometers also require different amounts of blood, which may be important to diabetics who are squeamish about blood. Some glucometers store your previous results or allow you to download your results to a computer.

Cost

• Glucometers usually cost between $15 and $100, according to Ohio State University. Check with your insurance to find out which models and how many test strips they will cover. Over time, test strips represent the real expense, since they cost 75 cents to $1 each.

Considerations

• Using a glucometer incorrectly will yield inaccurate results. Always read the directions carefully and practice using your glucometer with your doctor, nurse, diabetes educator or pharmacist.