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Type 1s Test Strips Prescription amount?

db89

Well-Known Member
Messages
1,134
Location
Cumbria
Type of diabetes
Type 1
Treatment type
Insulin
I was just wondering how many test strips others are prescribed on repeat? I get 100 a time at the moment but I've already burned through the authorised repeats and I find I'm having to get prescriptions more often just for strips. I phoned my GP surgery and they told me they would get reauthorised next time I request them but they didn't really give me an answer when I asked if I could have a higher quantity.

I use anywhere between 4 and 12 usually depending on what I'm doing each day (driving increases the amount I get through normally) but finding some days where I'm skipping checking after meals to make them last a bit longer. If 100 is fairly par for the course no problem, I'll probably just have to get myself some spare containers I know they're quite expensive.
 
I get 250 on a monthly script but can request more if needed. Don't tend to run out these days as I use a libre.
 
I ask for 200 at a time (previous to going onto a pump I had 100 at a time on my request form, but they weren't ever lasting me a month).

Now I use a Libre as well as my pump handset cum test meter I'm not getting through strips quite as quickly, and I order 200 at a time, which they're fine with.
 
@db89 the way I understand it is that as you are a type 1 on insulin they need to give you the number of strips you need. You need to have as many strips supplied to you as you need to use - I dont think your GP will be able to refuse a direct request to, say, double the strips they prescribe you.

You shouldn't be in a position where you are having to buy strips yourself.
 
I dropped a note into the surgery for the attention of my doctor, giving the math of why my prescription should be for 250 a time. That's roughly a one month supply and I live alone.

That's the prescription I have had for the last 3 years. Often on diagnosis it's the Diabetic Nurse who sets up the initial prescription and then you get it adjusted by your doctor.
 
Thank you everyone! I'll get in touch and ask them again if they'll double the amount. Hopefully won't have to resort to the PDF @noblehead but interesting reading anyway.
 
I have just collected 150 Glucolab test strips on prescription. I asked how much a box of 50 strips is and gasped - £18! Crazy. Who's taking us for a ride, eh?
 
asparagusp said:
I have just collected 150 Glucolab test strips on prescription. I asked how much a box of 50 strips is and gasped - £18! Crazy. Who's taking us for a ride, eh?
Click to expand...

I can see why they give the meters and batteries away for sure! A tub of 50 for my Accu Chek is anywhere between £20-30 depending which shop you're in.
 
Immoral and I will try to use them more sparingly in future. How much on prescription" I qualify for free ones.
 
Nice guidelines say they should allow enough for you to test to keep a good hbac1. I think it says up to 10 times a day but would have to check that.
They should not limit a type1 on insulin.
 
None, GP supplies me with repeat of test strip (for bayer contour usb) as it's the only one they supply, take it to chemist, they don't supply it even though they are both linked and next door to each other. The chemist then refer me to the hospital to get a new meter, but the GP surgery does not accept it onto their system, then I have to talk to the chemist again, they don't supply the test strips no matter what. An endless cycle so I have not tested since before christmas.
 
@nmr1991 that is appalling get your consultant on the case.
 
I have 200 at a time. As i do a lot of exercise, i test roughly 10 times a day. I usually order them every 2 weeks, and usually have to order a prescription weekly
 
@nmr1991 second what @Diakat is saying - that's ludicrous! I'd feel like I was driving blind - not that I would be able to drive without testing! I hope you can get something sorted between them all.
 

Take your signed prescription to a different chemist who can supply the strips - ring round the local chemists and ask.

If your hospital has given you a metre with different strips, get your DSN or consultant to write to your GP to get your prescription updated to the strips you need. In the meantime, get the hospital to issue you with a prescription.
 
Hi - I am T1 for over 55 years.

Test strip Info.

NICE has issued guidelines which say T! is expected to test 4-5 times per day and more when driving (DVLA Legislation) and / or using powered tools. They also say that under certain circumstances up to 10 or more tests per day should be performed.

Over the years I have experienced several DSN practitioners with sadly lacking levels of knowledge and a consultant who is superbly knowledgeable and extremely supportive.

For a T1, my experience is that everyone is different but a test strip quantity of 3 to 6 boxes of 50 strips per month is essential and dependant on the insulin dose size and frequency.

Hope this helps you ...
 
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