Hello & Test Strip Availability

[Bodybones28]

Hi

My name's Peter and I've been type 2 for last 10 years, I regularly look at the forum but this is my first posting. My diabetes is well controlled and thankfully I have no problems, my last 6 month blood reading was 6.3 with cholestoral at 3.8.

Like all of you out there I was told I was no longer able to obtain test strips as being type 2 there was no need for me to test! This has continued to make me annoyed with my surgery, well, that was until today when my Doctor (reluctantly) allowed me 2 test strips a year, I think purely down to my polite but persuasive manner.

I just wanted to say that there is still hope in getting test strips again on prescription, albeit in my case after 6 months of refusal, so please don't feel it's a never ending battle.

This is a good forum with lots of good advice from people who know, so anyone who has problems will not feel alone. Well done to you all.

Regards

Peter

 

[daisy1]

Two test strips a year - can they afford it :?: :lol:

 

[cugila]

I'm hoping you meant 2 BOXES a year ? However that in itself is totally ridiculous. :roll: No way is that enough to help maintain good control over a year.

Not all of us have problems though....it all boils down to cash strapped PCT's and a negative attitude towards testing, especially if you are a T2. My GP allows me to have 200 strips a month and more if I need.....an enlightened man and also someone who basically tells the PCT 'where to go !' Brave soul

Ken

 

[Bodybones28]

I am thankful for 2 boxes a year. That's 100 strips out of 365. I don't need to test every day as that would be pointless for me, and a waste of money but I'm aware other people have different needs. I'm grateful for what I get.

If you get 200 test strips a month how often do you test? What's your glucose levels like?

Peter

 

[cugila]

My levels are perfect for me, no more than 7 mmol/l most days.

I test frequently as I am trying to avoid hypo's due to being over medicated after a recent bout of anti Cancer treatment and recovery. Just had to reduce my dose of Byetta because of this. I test probably
6 - 7 times daily as I also drive long distances frequently and need my wits about me.

I prefer to keep a tight control of my Diabetes, I couldn't just rely on a HbA1c reading......that misses out any highs and lows. My Endo/SDSN/GP all are happy with what I do. My way of dealing with my Diabetes.

I do get 200 a month.....that doesn't mean to say I USE that many.......depends on the circumstances. I do have some left over some months, so I am never short. I am one of the lucky ones I suppose.

Ken

 

[Bodybones28]

Keep up the good work Ken.

Peter

 

[anniep]

I get one box every repeat presription, that is every 8 weeks.

 

[theacatsmother]

Hello all,

I'm T2, have been for 12 years, but I need insulin 'coz of other meds I take. My GP is another who tells the PCT where to go. When I'm really ill I get extras without any hassle as he knows I need to test even more. As it is I do 4-5 a day normally but it can get up to 10 at times! My poor fingers...

Regards from Thea