I'm frustrated by the high cost of blood glucose test strips. What can I do?

Answer From Peggy Moreland, R.N., C.D.E.

In the U.S., you can try these tips to reduce the cost of test strips:

  • Check with insurance or Medicare. Your insurance or Medicare will help to cover the cost of test strips if you have a prescription. Check with them, they may have a contract with a different meter company and you may be paying more than you have to for your test strips.
  • Check with your blood glucose meter company. Many companies have programs or discount cards to help with the cost of testing supplies. The number should be on the back of your meter.
  • Ask your store. Some chains have non-branded meters and testing supplies at a lower cost than branded meters.
  • Patient assistance and outreach programs. Ask your health care provider about resources that may be available to you.
May 16, 2018 See more Expert Answers