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Posted 12/4/2013 12:11 AM (GMT 0)
Doc diagnosed diet-controlled diabetes and I call office and left a message asking for a prescription for meter sticks (was trying to get the meter free with a coupon). Well she called back and said that she does not prescribe meters for diet-controlled because all I need to do is change eating habits and exercise. Well my thoughts were "how the heck will I know if my levels are under control unless I test daily at home?"

Have any of you heard of this? Is this a common practice?

Connie
Posted 12/4/2013 12:17 AM (GMT 0)
I've never heard of this before, Connie. My doctor prescribed a meter for me and tried to send me to diabetes school after my fasting tested at 105. Most doctors are trying to be proactive because of the epidemic of prediabetes and diabetes in this country.

I'm not sure about your "diet-controlled" diabetes, but assume this means pre-diabetes, and you should be eating right, exercising, but also monitoring your blood sugar to be sure you're staying in the pre-diabetic range. I can tell you from experience, you can keep doing the same healthy things but diet controlled diabetes is only controlled until it isn't any more. For me that took 8 years; for others it can be weeks or months.
Posted 12/4/2013 1:35 AM (GMT 0)
Thanks Judy,

It is the same as pre-diabetes. My fasting rate has been 106. I went out and bought a meter tonight but then could not figure out how to use it. I went to my grandmother because she is diabetic and uses a meter, she could not figure it out. I am going back to the CVS so they can show me how to work it but my grandmother did test my levels tonight and it was 106 exactly.

Connie
Posted 12/4/2013 1:50 AM (GMT 0)
Hi MizPiggy,  I also think the doctor should have prescribed a meter.  As Judy says, you should be monitoring your blood sugar because how else would you know how different food affects your blood sugar?  It's like groping in the dark for a doorknob.  It doesn't make sense.  Your insurance would cover it if it's prescribed.

You might even speak to your insurance company.

I hope you were able to get the instructions explained to you at the pharmacy.  Once you understand what to do, it won't be hard.

Posted 12/4/2013 2:12 AM (GMT 0)
Thanks Lanie,

I Figured out my problem. I bought the Accu Chek Compact Plus Kit and it does not come with the strips and control system. I need a prescription to get them so, I think I am going to go and get another meter that comes with everything since the doc wont prescribe one.

I will call my insurance tomorrow also tomorrow to see what my options are.

Connie
Posted 12/4/2013 2:28 AM (GMT 0)
Earlier this year my insurance company decided they wanted to switch to the Accuchek meter system so I was sent a new one.  Then last month they decided to go with the OneTouch , so I got a letter in the mail from OneTouch for a free meter and now my doctor will write prescriptions for the OneTouch.  Such a waste.  The Accuchek will just sit and gather dust when my strips run out.  I suppose insurance companies have contracts with these meter manufacturers and they go with the best deal they can negotiate.

Well, when you can get this sorted out, then start keeping that food journal so you know how your blood sugar reacts to the food you're eating.  And, again, the more carbs you eat, the higher your blood sugar will most probably rise.

Bad timing to have to get started with this during the holidays!  Sorry for that!

Posted 12/4/2013 3:20 AM (GMT 0)
There should be someplace where meters can be donated, and someone could help with the cost of test strips, for people in third-world countries who have no access.
Posted 12/4/2013 5:14 AM (GMT 0)
go to walmart and get the relion prime. the meter and 100 strips will cost about 35 to start up. after that the strips are about 18 for 100. they are just as reliable as the one touch
Posted 12/5/2013 1:15 AM (GMT 0)
Worriedgirl,

Thanks. CVS did let me return the Accu Chek. Went to Walmart and they did not have any of the Prime but I got the ReliOn Confirm. I hope this is as good as the Prime.

Thanks again
Posted 12/5/2013 12:06 PM (GMT 0)
Here the meters are free because you have to buy the strips
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