Mcvicker35, the test strips are now available on the NHS (in Northern Ireland with no problems anyway). None of your doctors practices should refuse as you NEED the strips! It's just that the doctors dont like the expense but tough luck, insist on them! They have to provide them.
I have to say I don't find this meter bulky in the slightest. Its actually shorter than my iphone and is very, ahem, discreet. I don't even have a problem with the finger pricker because, compared to other meters, it only needs a miniscule amount of blood.
To get the bottom cover off without too much hassle press the down and up buttons really hard and pull.
Marcus, happy for you to hijack the thread! Personally I think this is a fab meter and I am all for it! I am in the process of installing the Balance software at the moment so I will let you know how I get on with it, ease of installation, use etc.
Cheers
Yingal2010