GD Moms, glucometer question

kellyfo14

So here is the deal, I don't technically have GD but I had one elevated number on my 3 hour test and they are sending me to a diabetes specialist anyway and told me I should ask the insurance company what glucometer they cover. So I am assuming I am going to need one. Called the insurance company today and they said they will only cover a glucometer if it is a GD diagnosis.

So my question is, if I do have to get one on my own how much will it end up being? Looking online there is a pretty big range of prices and I am curious if there is a correlation between price and quality for this purpose? I really don't mind buying one if I need to and it's fairly cheap and I don't have to bother with the insurance side.

4littlebears

I didn't think they were that much. Have you tried calling your pharmacy? Also, look online for coupons. OR, check with the diabetes specialist. A lot of times they have free ones!

storm08

The monitor itself isn't super-expensive. I think I actually had to pay full-price for the monitor (even with insurance) and it was ~$20. 

The test strips and extra lancets are what add up quickly though. 

without insurance

$40 for 25 test strips

$13 for 100 lancets

with insurance

$5 dollars for both, two boxes of each

kellyfo14

Wow, ok, thanks for the help, ladies!!!

mmooki

You'll be able to get a free one from your dr most likely. Call your insurance company to find out which test strips they cover. Mine has a preferred brand which is cheaper than any other brand. So I have to use that meter to get the best prices. Sucks but that's how they work now

aprilrose83

If you are getting a glucometer and insurance doesn't cover it, I generally recommend the GE brand meter and strips.  They are pretty inexpensive and are pretty popular with the patients I work with.

kellyfo14

Thank you!

rainbows

Check amazon for test strips.  Locally, they cost $19 for 25, on amazon I can get 100 for 22$

shakalex

Ask your dr to change the amount you get. I was prescribed 50 for 25.00. After explaining to my dr she changed it to 150 at a time and now my copay went down to 20.00