How to Compare Glucose Meters

Glucose level monitoring is essential for those with medical conditions such as diabetes and for pregnant women with blood sugar control issues. Choosing the right meter is a decision based on cost, medical insurance coverage and personal preference.

Function

• Blood glucose meters analyze the amount of glucose in the blood sample read via the machine. Some machines are simple and provide readings one at a time and the user must either write down or remember the last monitor reading to make comparisons. More advanced meters have inherent meter reading storage built into the meter.

Types

• There are large meters and there are very small, compact versions. The decision between the two is based on the ability of the user to handle the machine and its functions. Another decision that made between types of glucose monitors is the amount and size of blood sample required for the meter to make a reading.

Considerations

• Cost is a consideration when choosing between blood glucose meters. If medical or supplemental health insurance is being used to purchase or offset the cost of a machine, you must determine which machines are covered by your individual plan. Meters purchased outright should be compared for cost of not only the machine itself but for the diabetic testing supplies that will be required for continued usage.