What is the United Healthcare Medicare preferred glucometer?

United Healthcare Medicare Preferred Glucometer Options

For United Healthcare Medicare beneficiaries, the preferred glucometer is typically the OneTouch brand (OneTouch Verio or OneTouch Ultra), though specific coverage may vary based on individual plans.

Understanding Glucometer Coverage Under Medicare Plans

United Healthcare Medicare plans generally follow standard Medicare coverage guidelines for blood glucose monitoring equipment. While the specific preferred brand may change periodically based on contracts and formulary updates, OneTouch products have historically been the preferred brand for many UHC Medicare plans.

Key Considerations for Glucometer Selection

1. Accuracy and Reliability

   • FDA standards require home-use glucose monitors to have 95% of readings within 15% of actual blood glucose values 1
   • Only about one-third of commonly used glucose meters meet the defined accuracy standards 1
   • Factors affecting accuracy include:
     • Oxygen levels (glucose oxidase-based meters are affected by oxygen saturation)
     • Medications and other interfering substances
     • Environmental factors

2. Technology Options

   • Traditional Blood Glucose Meters (BGM):

     • Recommended for patients using intensive insulin regimens 1
     • Should be used at least 3 times daily in patients with type 1 diabetes 1

   • Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM):

     • May be covered for patients meeting specific criteria
     • Available options include Abbott FreeStyle Libre, Dexcom G6, and Medtronic systems 1
     • Provides trend data and patterns that help detect hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia 1

Obtaining Your Preferred Glucometer

1. Prescription Requirements

   • A prescription from your healthcare provider is required
   • The prescription should specify "testing supplies for diabetes"
   • Your provider should document medical necessity

2. Coverage Verification

   • Contact United Healthcare Medicare customer service directly to confirm:
     • Current preferred brands
     • Coverage limitations
     • Any prior authorization requirements

3. Distribution Channels

   • Durable Medical Equipment (DME) suppliers
   • Network pharmacies
   • Mail-order options through UHC Medicare

Clinical Considerations

Frequency of Testing

• Type 1 diabetes: At least 3 times daily 1
• Type 2 diabetes on insulin: Individualized based on regimen
• Type 2 diabetes not on insulin: Routine use not recommended unless specifically indicated 1

Effectiveness of Monitoring

• Frequent monitoring is associated with improved glycemic control in insulin users 2
• Patients using CGM showed significant decreases in HbA1c, emergency department visits, and overall healthcare utilization compared to traditional finger-stick monitoring 2

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

1. Using non-preferred brands - May result in higher out-of-pocket costs
2. Inadequate testing frequency - Can lead to suboptimal glycemic control
3. Not using results to guide therapy - Many patients check glucose but take no action on results 1
4. Using counterfeit test strips - Can lead to inaccurate results 1
5. Using glucometers for diagnosis - Portable glucose meters should not be used for diagnosing diabetes 1

For the most current and specific information about your United Healthcare Medicare plan's preferred glucometer, contact UHC Medicare customer service directly using the number on the back of your insurance card.