Cheapest Glucometer Option
The most cost-effective approach is to select a basic FDA-cleared glucometer that meets current accuracy standards, with the primary cost driver being test strips rather than the meter itself. 1
Key Cost Considerations
Strip Costs Are the Primary Expense
- The ongoing cost of test strips represents the major financial burden of blood glucose monitoring, not the meter itself 1
- Glucose meters and their associated supplies represent a multibillion-dollar expense for diabetes care worldwide 1
- When selecting a "cheap" glucometer, focus on the long-term strip costs rather than the upfront meter price 1
Accuracy Must Not Be Compromised for Cost
- Only 6 of the top 18 best-selling glucose meters met FDA accuracy standards in one analysis, though a subsequent analysis showed 14 of 18 met minimum requirements 1
- Patients should be advised against purchasing preowned or secondhand test strips, as these may give incorrect results 1
- Only unopened and unexpired vials of glucose test strips should be used to ensure accuracy 1
Practical Recommendations
Verify FDA Clearance and Accuracy
- Select meters that meet FDA guidance requiring 95% of readings within 15% for all blood glucose results in the usable range, and 99% within 20% 1
- Check the Diabetes Technology Society Blood Glucose Monitoring System Surveillance Program website (www.diabetestechnology.org/surveillance.shtml) for performance data on specific devices 1
Consider Insurance Coverage
- Most commercial insurance and Medicare programs cover specific meters and strips 1
- The "cheapest" option is often the one covered by the patient's insurance plan, as out-of-pocket costs for non-covered supplies can be substantial 1
- Verify coverage before purchasing to avoid unexpected costs 1
Alternative to Traditional Glucometers
- Intermittently scanned continuous glucose monitors (isCGM) have lower direct costs than real-time CGM systems and may be covered by most commercial insurance carriers and eligible Medicare programs 1
- isCGM does not require calibration with blood glucose monitoring and has no ongoing strip costs 1
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Avoid counterfeit or alternative brand test strips that have not undergone quality control procedures, as they may give inaccurate results and compromise safety 1, 2
- Do not purchase based solely on initial meter cost without considering long-term strip expenses 1
- Ensure the selected meter meets current FDA accuracy standards rather than older standards under which it may have been originally approved 1