Sioban is correct, except that once your GP has seen over several HBA1Cs that you have consistent control, they will often re-check it only once a year. Are you sure that you haven't been called for a repeat since the first test?
Sounds odd Graham, I would go back to my GP or nurse and ask for one. HBa1C tests are far more reliable an indicator of your overall long term control of your condition than daily testing (though daily testing is still vital in my book!!) so I would certainly be seeking a test if I were you.
I think that the guidelines are at least once a year.
It can be done every 3 months though and thats what i have, I get called 6 monthly to see the nurse at the surgery and get an A1c done. the ones in between time si just make an appointment with the phlebotomist and get it done.
Just so there are no doubts, the NICE guidelines for GPs for HBA1C testing are as follows:
Measure HbA1c levels at:
• 2–6 monthly intervals (tailored to individual needs) until blood glucose control is stable on unchanging therapy. Use a measurement made at an interval of less than 3 months as a useful indicator of direction of change, rather than a new steady state
• 6-monthly intervals once the blood glucose level and blood glucose lowering therapy are stable.
Wonder how long it will be before a PCT somewhere decides that it's too expensive so HBA1Cs in future can only be done every 29th February!!! :twisted: