I suggest you request blood testing strips and equipment from your GP. The protocol has changed in recent years as they are discouraged from prescribing testing strips unless you are taking a medication that may lead to low blood sugar - and Metformin is not one of them. However newly diagnosed people can be given, at Doctors' discretion, relevant equipment. If this is not forthcoming it is worth self-funding if it is within your means. How else can you be sure the medication is doing the job?