Right to keep current blood testing kit?

Hi everyone,

I recently joined a new doctor's surgery as I have just moved to a different area.

Before I joined the surgery, I phoned to explain that I have Type 1 diabetes and that I use an Accuchek Aviva blood testing kit. I also explained that I need 200 strips a month to manage my diabetes. The receptionist checked with the dispensary at the surgery, and I was told that this would all be fine.

So I registered with the surgery the following week. I have now had a call from the receptionist to say that there have been recent changes made by my local Clinical Commissioning Group, and that they recommend me using another blood testing meter, the Wavesense Jazz.

I am not happy about changing meters as I have been using the Accuchek meter for many years and it is very accurate. I have made an appointment to discuss my requirements with the doctor next week, but now I am worrying that he'll refuse to give me the testing strips I require.

I understand that this is a cost-cutting measure, however I don't see why I should be forced to changed meters, especially when I joined the surgery on the understanding that I could continue with my current kit.

What are my rights to keep my current blood testing meter? Any advice would be most welcome!

Many thanks.

Sking89 said:

My surgery switched me to wave sense jazz...I had two, both broke. They gave readings in 1's and 2's which id never had before and didn't feel that low, realised it was the meter, tested on my brothers kit to prove it was broken. Switched back to the my life pura which is just as cheap but the one I've always used...I was keen to stay on this as I use carbs and Cals for calculating insulin so don't need an all singing all dancing machine....however, my diabetic nurse made it very clear to me that I am entitled to the Meter that helps me to better manage my diabetes....so fight your case, don't give in. This is your life, you should have the meter that helps you live an easier and healthier life!!

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Thanks for your reply! I've been researching the Wavesense Jazz and it sounds awful. I'm going to stand my ground with my new GP, I manage really well with the blood testing kit I have and I'm not prepared to change. I was just wondering whether people HAVE to change their meter or whether they can still choose to keep their old one.

Thanks for your all your comments and advice, I've been worried sick about it as I rely so heavily on testing to manage my diabetes (I test around 4-5 times a day), so any potential change to that sends me into panic mode. I feel better having read your comments, so thank you .