Best Blood Glucose Monitors

Blood Glucose Monitors: Taking Control of Diabetes Management

Testing blood sugar isn't fun, but the right meter makes it less miserable. After 20 years of Type 2 management, here's what actually matters.

Traditional Meters vs. CGM
Fingerstick Meters:

Snapshot of current glucose
- Lower upfront cost
- Requires finger pricks
- No trend data
- Good for: Type 2, occasional testing

Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGM):
- Real-time glucose every few minutes
- Trend arrows show direction
- Alerts for highs and lows
- Higher ongoing cost
- Good for: Type 1, intensive management, hypoglycemia unawareness

### What Makes a Meter Accurate?
- ISO 15197:2013 standard compliance
- Consistent readings test-to-test
- Works across glucose ranges
- Proper strip storage matters

Note: All FDA-cleared meters meet accuracy standards, but some exceed them. Studies show Contour Next consistently ranks highest.

### The Real Cost: Strips
The meter is cheap—strips are the expense:
- Brand name: $0.50-1.00 per strip
- Generic/store brand: $0.20-0.40 per strip
- Testing 4x daily = $60-120/month on strips

### Insurance Considerations
- Many plans prefer specific brands
- CGMs increasingly covered
- Medicare Part B covers meters and strips
- Quantity limits may apply

### Testing Tips
For accurate readings:
1. Wash hands with soap (food residue affects results)
2. Use second drop of blood
3. Test on side of fingertip (less painful)
4. Rotate fingers
5. Store strips properly (not in bathroom)