Knowing your blood glucose levels is one of the most important parts of effectively managing diabetes. Get accurate readings quickly and easily with the proper diabetes testing supplies at US MED®. We offer a variety of blood glucose test strips, meters, lancets, control solutions, and more. With trusted brands and user-friendly options, we make it simple for you to track your blood sugar levels and take control of your health every day. We can bill your insurance or Medicare directly and manage the document collection process, saving you precious time. We also send you convenient reminders when it’s time to reorder, so you never have to worry about running out of supplies.
What Diabetes Testing Supplies Do I Need?
Today there are many ways to test blood glucose levels. Diabetic testing supplies may vary based on personal preference, doctor’s suggestions, and individual needs. However, there are basic supplies that any person living with diabetes needs for testing blood glucose levels. These include:
-
- Glucose meter: Small handheld device with a display screen that tests your blood glucose levels and provides a reading.
- Lancing device: Tool that includes a needle-like lancet that is typically spring loaded. It quickly and easily draws a small amount of blood via finger stick for the test sample.
- Test strips: Disposable strips that hold your blood sample and are inserted into the meter.
- Lancets: Small needle-like tools inside a lancing device that inject into the finger to draw the blood sample.
- Control solutions: Liquid substance designed to test the accuracy of a blood glucose meter.
These supplies are considered the basics for many people living with diabetes. There are more advanced options as well, like continuous glucose monitors, which are wearable devices that offer around-the-clock monitoring.
Glucose Meters
Lancets and Control Solutions
How to Test Blood Glucose Levels at Home
Most people haven’t tested their blood glucose levels until being diagnosed with diabetes. If you are new to home glucose testing, don’t worry. Your diabetes healthcare team will walk you through the self-testing process and advise you on how and when to test your blood glucose. That schedule includes tests every morning before breakfast at a minimum. It’s also common to test before other meals, at bedtime, and one to two hours after the start of a meal.
The testing process isn’t complicated once you get the hang of it. The basic steps are as follows:
- Puncture your fingertip with a lancet
- Put the resulting blood drop on a test strip
- Place the test strip in your glucose meter
- Wait for your blood glucose results to appear on the meter’s screen
Following these steps while sticking to your healthcare team’s recommended schedule helps you effectively manage your health, avoiding unnecessary highs and lows.
What is a glucose meter?
Traditional glucose meters are portable, battery-operated devices used to analyze your blood sugar levels. To use them, you’ll apply a blood sample to a test strip and place it in the meter’s slot. In no more than 15 seconds, your meter will give you a readout of your current blood glucose measurement. From there, you can make treatment decisions like adjusting your diet, getting physical activity, or changing your medication schedule.
There are many different glucose meters on the market today, all of which have unique features. Everything from minimum blood sample size to accuracy to visibility might affect your purchase decision, depending on your priorities. US MED® offers the highest quality blood glucose meters. We’re happy to help you find the best meter. For help choosing the right meter for your needs, give us a call.
How do test strips work?
All glucose meters use test strips. These small plastic strips have a chemical coating that powers the testing process by converting blood glucose to gluconic acid, creating an electrical current in the process.
Test strips aren’t reusable, so you’ll need to make sure you have a steady supply. At the same time, not all test strips are compatible with all meters. Check to ensure you’re ordering test strips that work with your device. If you’re unsure which test strips are compatible with your meter, we are happy to help.
What are control solutions for diabetes blood glucose testing?
A control solution is a liquid that is used to check the accuracy of your blood glucose meter. At times, you may have reason to question your glucose meter’s accuracy. In these situations, the best way to determine whether or not your device is functioning properly is by using a control solution.
Glucose meters measure a control solution the same way they measure a drop of blood. The control solution contains a predetermined amount of glucose so your result should fall into a known range. If your number is under or over that amount, your meter may be malfunctioning.
Like test strips, it’s crucial to ensure you use the correct control solution for your meter. US MED® offers multiple control solution brands and can help you choose the one that’s right for you.
Does Medicare cover diabetic testing supplies?
Medicare and Medicaid cover certain diabetic testing supplies. Medicare Part B covers diabetes testing supplies including, lancets, lancing devices, test strips, and monitors, and Medicaid covers most of these items as well. You can check your eligibility for diabetes supply reimbursements online if you are covered by either one. For other health insurance, 46 out of 50 U.S. states require insurers to cover diabetes supplies, medicine, and equipment. For a full breakdown of Medicare coverage, read our guide, Does Medicare Cover Diabetes Supplies?
Diabetes Testing Supplies Online
Did you know you can easily order diabetic testing supplies online and have them delivered to your door? At US MED®, it’s easy to get all the items you need quickly and conveniently. Once you select your products, you can enter your information online for a free benefits check to see what is covered by your insurance, ensuring you get the best price. Our helpful customer service team will assist you each step of the way if you have any questions. US MED members also enjoy free priority shipping.
Why Choose US MED for Your Diabetes Testing Supplies
US MED® is America’s top destination for diabetes testing supplies and other diabetes-related products. We provide countless benefits and conveniences to our customers. See some of the reasons why we are the number one provider below:
- FREE Priority Shipping on All Orders
- Automatic Reorder Reminders
- Direct Insurance Billing
- Provider for Medicare and 500+ Private Insurance Carriers
- 90 Days of Supplies with Each Order
- Top-Notch Customer Service
We also have an A+ Better Business Bureau rating and accreditations from the ACHC, URAC, and NABP. For questions about insurance coverage, diabetic testing supplies, or more, give us a call. We’re here to help!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
While accuracy levels can vary from brand to brand, any commercially available glucose meter and testing strips will fall within 20 percent of ideal lab values.
You should test your blood sugar daily immediately upon waking up. That way, if your glucose levels are above abnormal, you can take steps to resolve it.
Yes, you may do so with a continuous glucose monitor (CGM). Popular CGMs available at US MED® include the Dexcom G7 and Freestyle Libre 3+ Sensor.
Yes. Home blood testing is a necessity for individuals living with diabetes. With a diabetic testing kit, you can easily and safely test blood sugar levels without a doctor.
An Apple Watch may be a helpful tool when paired with other diabetes tools to monitor blood sugar. For example, some continuous glucose monitors like the Dexcom G7 can communicate with an Apple Watch via app, so you can get alerts on your wrist.
Yes, when pairing your phone with a CGM from Dexcom or Abbott, you can get blood sugar updates on your smartphone.
Medical Review by Shirley DeLeon, Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist
Why Choose US MED®
Related Articles
Top Medicare Deductible Questions
If you’re on Medicare and have questions about your deductible, you’re not alone. Each year, Medicare beneficiaries face…
Insulin Overdose: Signs, Treatment, and Prevention
If you’re asking yourself “can you overdose on insulin?,” you should know this is a real possibility. Here’s the US MED guide to handling an insulin overdose.
What is Postprandial Blood Sugar?
Keeping your postprandial blood sugar under control is an essential part of living with diabetes. Here, you’ll find US MED’s in-depth explanation of postprandial blood sugar, along with tips on how to control it.
Dexcom G6 vs G7: What to Know
Learn about the latest news on Dexcom G7, how it compares to the Dexcom G6, and how to get through US MED.
Does Medicare Cover Diabetes Supplies?
Are you wondering if Medicare will cover your purchase from US MED? Find out more about Medicare coverage and our wide selection of diabetes supplies.
Can You Trust Your Diabetic Supply Company? 3 Signs to Look For
You depend on your diabetic supply company to provide you with safe, quality supplies for managing diabetes. How…
5 Steps for Managing Diabetes | Type 1 and Type 2
We’ll walk you through five steps to help you manage your diabetes so you can live a life…
Prediabetes: Key Risk Factors and Effective Lifestyle Changes
If you’re at risk for type 2 diabetes, you may develop a condition known as “prediabetes” first. Here’s…
Comparing the Best Insulin Pumps: Features, Pros, and Cons for Managing Diabetes
What is the Best Insulin Pump for Your Diabetic Needs? Diabetes is a serious condition, and more people…
Insulin Pumps and CGMs: A Complete Guide for Diabetes Management
How much is a CGM? How is an insulin pump different than a CGM? Get answers to these question and more in this product breakdown.
How to Apply a CGM Sensor
It’s no secret that continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) are popular among people with diabetes these days. If you’re wondering, “how is CGM inserted?,” keep reading for a complete guide to CGM installation and more.
Type 1 Diabetes vs Type 2 Diabetes
What is the Difference Between Type 1 Diabetes and Type 2 Diabetes? If you’ve recently been diagnosed with…
Do I Need a CGM Prescription? Answers for People with Diabetes
These days, most people with diabetes have at least heard of continuous glucose monitors (CGMs). These devices allow…
Managing Diabetes and Depression: Strategies for Your Mental Health
Both diabetes and depression can be difficult conditions to manage – and that’s especially true when you’re dealing with both at the same time. Get advice on how to cope from US MED.
Managing Diabetes When You’re Sick: Essential Tips
Many aspects of everyday life are more difficult when you’re managing diabetes, and that includes taking care of…
Can Stress Raise Blood Sugar? | A Guide to Managing Stress and Diabetes
If you suspect stress may be affecting your ability to manage your diabetes, you’re not alone. Medical professionals…
The Link Between Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease: What You Need to Know
Maintaining optimal cardiovascular health is paramount for individuals navigating life with diabetes. It’s a reality that those managing…
How to Care for Diabetes: A Guide for Families and Caregivers
Navigating the journey of diabetes care can be complex, but with the right knowledge and support, managing diabetes…
The Future of Diabetes Management: Why CGM and GLP-1s are a Symbiotic Pair
As a leader in the diabetes supplies industry, I have a front-row seat to the evolving landscape of care….
Best Blood Glucose Meters for 2024 | A Curated Guide
For people with diabetes, blood glucose meters aren’t just helpful—these devices are an essential component of any worthwhile…
Different Types of CGM: A Complete Guide
What is the Best Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) for Your Diabetic Needs? It’s a fact of life –…
Dexcom G7 Compatibility with Tandem t:slim X2: What You Need to Know | US MED
In early 2023, Dexcom began offering the Dexcom G7 Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) System to U.S. residents with…
Diabetes and Dental Health: How to Protect Your Smile and Prevent Complications
Diabetes and Dental Health: How to Protect Your Smile and Prevent Complications Diabetes management can undoubtedly be stressful,…
The Role of Technology in Diabetes Management: From Apps to Continuous Glucose Monitors
Since its discovery in 1921, insulin has played a central role in treating type 1 (and, in some…
Diabetes and Family Support: Navigating the Impact and Outcome Together
Living with diabetes presents its challenges, and as a family member or caretaker, your support is crucial. Diabetes…
Intermittent Fasting and Diabetes: Potential Benefits and Consideration
In this article we take a closer look at Intermittent Fasting and share with you the risks and benefits.
Having a Social Life and Navigating Events with Diabetes
Managing diabetes can be difficult enough as it is. This is US MED’s guide on how to balance diabetes management and still have a fun time.
Is There a Link Between Diabetes and Stress?
Are you interested in improving your diabetes management strategy by taking steps to deal with the physical and mental side effects of stress? If so, keep reading for a comprehensive overview of the link between diabetes and stress.
Main Differences Between the Freestyle Libre 3 vs 2
Learn the key distinctions between Abbott’s latest continuous glucose monitoring systems in this guide with US MED.
What Is a Closed-Loop System?
Learn all about closed-loop diabetes management solutions, combining the use of a CGM and insulin pump, in this guide from US MED.
Traveling with Diabetes: Tips for a Smooth Journey and Blood Sugar Control
Planning a trip is stressful, but managing your diabetes makes it even more challenging. US MED has all the tips you need, so you can get into vacation mode.
Going Back to School with Diabetes
Back-to-school season can be stressful for any parent, and there’s even more to worry about if your child has diabetes. This comprehensive guide from US MED can help make sure your prepared.
What is Diabetic Neuropathy?
Find out more about Diabetic Neuropathy, including the causes, symptoms, and ways to avoid and treat this well-known diabetes complication.
Shoes, Diabetes, and Foot Health
Foot problems are common in people with diabetes, and wearing the right shoes is a great way to keep your feet safe. Learn more with US MED.
10 Natural Ways to Combat Diabetes
With diabetes cases increasing in America, it’s more important than ever to take action. If you need to know how to fight diabetes naturally, these ten tips from US MED can help.
Mushrooms and Diabetes: How Can Mushrooms Help with Blood Sugar Levels?
Learn more with US MED’s guide to adding mushrooms to your diabetes diet and discover how this food can help keep your blood sugar in check.
Tips for People Newly Diagnosed with Diabetes
When you have newly diagnosed diabetes, knowing your next steps is crucial. Here are US MED’s tips for living with diabetes.
Diabetes Support Groups: Why Are They Important?
If you’re curious about diabetes support groups but don’t know how to get started, US MED can help. Here, you’ll find our comprehensive overview.
Staying Active with Diabetes: How Yoga for Diabetes Can Help
Following a yoga regimen could help you deal with the stress related to diabetes management. If you have type 2/type 1 diabetes and yoga sounds like something you might enjoy, keep reading for the information you need on starting a yoga routine.
How Does Diabetes Affect Sleep?
Are you wondering “how does diabetes affect your sleep?”. This is US MED’s overview of how sleep and diabetes type 2/type 1 intersect.
Being a Parent with Diabetes
When you know how to deal with diabetes, you’ll find it easier than ever to live with diabetes and raise your kids along the way. Here, you’ll find US MED’s advice for parents with diabetes.
Pre-existing Diabetes and Pregnancy
Have you been looking for information on pregnancy and diabetes? If so, there’s a good chance you’re already…
Dexcom G7 Release Date, Features & Cost Insights
Are you interested in learning more about the Dexcom G7 and what distinguishes it from other CGMs available today? If so, you’re in luck. Take a look at our complete overview of this exciting new product!
Dexom G7 CGM Super Bowl Ad with Nick Jonas
The long-awaited Dexcom G7 CGM is here. With the help of Nick Jonas, Dexcom is introducing the new Dexcom G7 CGM in a 2023 Super Bowl commercial.
Know Your Diabetes ABCs | US MED
Learning essential diabetes management steps can make managing this disease far simpler. Learn the ABCs of diabetes with US MED.
Does Diabetes Cause High Blood Pressure?: Understanding Between High Blood Pressure and Diabetes
If you’re wondering, “can diabetes cause high blood pressure?” or “how can I control high blood pressure with diabetes?,” read on for all the answers you need.
Diabetes Sweating Connection: Why Does Diabetes Make You Sweat?
Diabetes may cause you to sweat more than usual. Learn more on how diabetes and sweating are connected in the article below.
Gestational Diabetes : What Should You Eat When You’re on a Healthy Meal Plan?
Type 1 and type 2 diabetes may be the most well-known forms of diabetes, but they aren’t the only diabetes types you should be aware of. During pregnancy, you may experience a condition known as “gestational diabetes.”
A1C Overview: What is A1C? | US MED
One reliable method of diagnosing diabetes is the hemoglobin A1C test. If you’re asking yourself, “What is A1C testing, anyway?” Learn more with US MED.
Diabetes Symptoms: What You Need to Know
Diabetes management isn’t always an easy task, but you’ll need to work hard at it. Learn about diabetes symptoms and management with US MED.
Currently a
US Med® Member?
If you're an existing member, the fastest and easiest way to reorder is by logging into the members portal, where you can also update your account.
Interested in Becoming a US MED® Member?
It's simple, fast and easy! Just complete a quick form or call 1-877-840-8218 now and let us take care of the rest.
Prefer to reorder by phone?
No problem! Just call 866-723-6958 and our agents will walk you through the reorder process.
AHCA Licensure Numbers: 1313231 and 1314211
For Healthcare Professionals
About Us
US MED® is America's primary choice for home delivery of quality medical supplies. Since 1996, over 1 million satisfied members have received disease state education and medical supplies from our highly trained customer service specialists. US MED®, the largest provider of Diabetic Supplies to the Medicare community, is licensed and accredited by Accreditation Commission for Health Care (ACHC) and maintains an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. We provide all products necessary to treat the Diabetes disease state, including therapies for its associated comorbidities. Our product portfolio includes, but is not limited to, the following: Diabetic testing strips, Continuous Glucose Monitors or CGMs, Insulin Pumps, Sleep Apnea and CPAP supplies, and Nebulizers.