Diabetes is a chronic condition that requires ongoing care and attention to prevent significant health problems. In order to take care of diabetes, it is important to have certain supplies available at all times.
Glucose Meter – the glucose meter allows a person with diabetes to test their blood glucose levels as often as they need to. Blood glucose levels are tested using a drop of blood from a fingertip. This reflects the most recent changes in blood glucose levels better than taking blood from other parts of the body.
Lancets – small, sharp needles used to pierce the tip of the finger.
Test Strips - a drop of blood from the finger is placed on a test strip and inserted into the glucose monitor. A new test strip is used every time blood glucose levels are tested.
Urine Test Strips – these are used only by people with diabetes type one. These diabetes supplies test for ketones in the urine.
Glucose Tablets – treating low glucose levels quickly is important. The faster the treatment the easier it is to fix. Glucose tablets provide a quick bump to glucose levels, helping the body level out.
Emergency Alert Bracelet -it’s important for medical personnel to know what medical problems a person they are treating may have. Anyone who has diabetes should wear one of these bracelets for if they are in an accident, or go into insulin shock, and EMTs and doctors have to know what is needed.
Insulin Supplies – not everyone with diabetes needs to take insulin, but those that do should have either a diabetes pen, or a syringe and vial of insulin, on hand where ever they are.
Insurance will usually cover diabetes supplies as a medically necessary expense. If it doesn’t, there are a number of programs available that can help get supplies free or at low cost.
