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By Scott Michaels
One of the great things about the Internet is that it’s
created
a global community for discussions of topics such as diabetes.
You’ll find there are a number of forums that will allow you
to
talk to others facing your situation.
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with diabetes,
one of your first steps will likely be to find a glucose
meter.
There are some things to keep in mind as you make your
decision
because this piece of equipment is likely to be part of your
life for the foreseeable future.
A glucose meter (or glucometer) is a medical device for
determining the approximate amount of glucose in a drop of
blood obtained by pricking the skin with a lancet. Glucose
meters are portable and designed for use by ordinary people,
especially those with diabetes.
There are now dozens of models of glucose meters. Typical
features common to most. The average size is now approximately
the size of the palm of the hand, though some are smaller or a
bit larger. They are battery-powered. A consumable element
containing chemicals which react with glucose in the drop of
blood is used for each measurement. For most models this
element is a plastic test strip with a small spot impregnated
with glucose oxidase and other components. Each strip can only
be used once and is then discarded.
Cost is a major issue for most people, but there’s good news
if
you have any kind of medical insurance. A glucose meter is
typically considered to be a vital part of medical treatment
and insurance companies often pay for a portion or the entire
cost of the meter. At the same time, there is sometimes a
limit
on the amount the insurance company will pay, and that may
severely limit your options.
While cost is naturally important, remember that you’re going
to be living this life from now on. Finding a cheaper glucose
meter that requires a more serious stick for blood may seem
like the best option when you’re writing the check for the
meter, but the tedium of the daily stick may negate that cost
in the long run.
There are some companies out there that help with the cost of
a
glucose meter if you meet specific income guidelines. This may
be a good answer if your quandary about which meter to buy is
purely based on financial restraints. Remember that Medicare
often pays on this important testing equipment as well. Your
doctor, druggist or representative of a local medical supply
company may also be good sources of information about how to
find the best deals and how to get help paying for a glucose
meter.
Finding a very inexpensive glucose meter may be the best
answer
to this situation. If the meter is accurate, it’ll get you
through the initial period of adjusting your life to the
regular testing of your blood sugar. Then take time to do some
research into what’s hot and what’s not in glucose meters.
You’ll find that some make absolutely ridiculous claims and
you
may have to ask some questions to find those companies that
produce the glucose meter that will work best for you and your
lifestyle.
About The Author: A glucose meter (or glucometer) is a medical
device for determining the approximate amount of glucose in a
drop of blood obtained by pricking the skin with a lancet.
www.glucosemeters.diabetic-source.com
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