Hi
@martyn2
I had the Accu-Check meter, with strips on prescription, until receiving a letter from the surgery informing all patients using the Accu-Check that they would now be using the Gluco Nexus.
Like you, no choice, except the 'normal' one or the 'mini' meter. I chose the 'Mini' meter, tried it and hated it so didn't use it for ages. However, I now use it and find I don't mind using it at all. The 'needle stabber' is a bit clunkier, I feel, and I a bit more fiddly to change the lancets, I do admit but, on the whole, it's OK. I've got used to it.
I suspect the change over was partly to have 'newer' meters and they will have considered the cost of the test strips too, bearing in mind their budget etc. A lot of choices will, of course, take cost into consideration, and so it should, although not necessarily at the risk of patient care etc.
The meter itself is great. The Mini is quite small, of course, and is quick with the reading. I also like being able to only need to provide the tiniest of drops of blood for the test strip. Consequently, I've been able to reduce the 'stab' action, which I'm happy about
Hope you soon get used to it.