Testing for Blood Sugar Control

To control your diabetes, you  must know your blood sugar levels and target goals.  There are two different tests to measure your  blood sugar – the A1 C test and a finger-stick test.  You need both tests to get a picture of your  blood sugar control.

A1C TEST

The A1C test measures the average  amount of sugar that has been in your blood over the last three months.  This is done by taking a small sample of  blood and measuring the amount of glucose in the blood cells.

WHY SHOULD I HAVE AN A1C TEST

An A1C test is the best way for  your doctor to determine if your blood sugar is under control.  The test shows if your blood sugar level is  normal or too high.

WHAT IS A GOOD A1C TESTING GOAL

The A1C goal for people with  diabetes is less than 7 percent.  At this  level, your treatment plan is probably working and it indicates that your blood  sugar is under control.

WHAT HAPPENS IF YOUR A1C IS HIGH

A high A1C (greater than 7  percent) means that you have a higher risk of developing eye, kidney diseases  and nerve damage.  If this is so, you may  need to consult your physician in order to reduce the glucose level and the  risk of complications.

HOW OFTEN DO I NEED AN A1C TEST

Ask your doctor.  You may need to do the test more often if  your blood sugar stays too high or if your doctor makes any changes to your  treatment plan.

A1C TEST

The A1C test provides valuable  information about:
Your average blood sugar levels  for the past three months.
Your risk for developing  long-term complications from diabetes, such as eye, kidney and nerve damage.

WHAT IS A FINGER-STICK TEST

A finger-stick test involves  pricking the finger with a lancet and placing a drop o f blood into a blood  glucose meter.  Unlike the A1C test,  which measures glucose control over time, a finger-stick measures your blood sugar level at the time of the test.

Your blood sugar goals may be different from the ideal goals.  Ask your  doctor what goals are best for Finger-stick tests are usually done before  meals, 2 hours after a meal and/or at bedtime.   Ideal goals for most people with diabetes when self-testing using a  blood glucose meter are:

Lowering your blood sugar by 30  points decreases your A1C by 1 percent and decreases your risk of long-term  problems by 15-30 percent.

TAKING CONTROL OF YOUR BLOOD GLUCOSE

 
• Discuss with your doctor your blood sugar goals for A1C  tests and self-monitoring glucose tests.

 
• Check your blood glucose as often as needed and discuss the results with your doctor.

 
• Eat the right foods in the right amounts.

 
• Get regular physical activity as advised by your doctor.

 
• Check your blood pressure and cholesterol levels and know what their goals should be.

WHAT THE NHF DOES FOR DIABETICS

 
• NHF card Beneficiaries are entitled to Diabetic supplies (e.g. glucometer test strips, syringes, lancets and urine test strips) once they have received diabetic benefits.

 
• NHF negotiated with manufacturer/distributors to offer free glucometers to NHF beneficiaries who are covered for diabetes.

 
• If you are a diabetic and you are a member of the NHF, you will be subsidized for two A1C tests annually.