Victim of the postcode lottery

[Kim_C]

I was refused testing strips on prescription today with the excuse that I don't need to self test, the 3 monthly HBA1C is enough!
On questioning this, the nurse did admit that it's partly down to cost :evil:
I told her "that I will still self test and I'll buy my own", in a 'stuff you' kind of way

 

[hanadr]

Loads of us buy our own. Very few PCTs wll allow them on prescrription to T2s even if they are meant to for the newly diagnosed. I have had good service and good prices from EBay sellers( do check them out thoroughly) you have some protection if you buy that way and pay by paypal.
If you get one of the more common meters, it's easier to buy the strips. I have a Freestyle Mini and a Bayer Contour. Both easy to get supplies for.
Don't forget to check expiry dates.
3 monthly HbA1cs is better than many people get. I got missed last year and was only "checked" once. In any case here they do 6 monthly. When they remember.

 

[totsy]

my neighbour is type 2 and only gets urine sticks, we are in west yorks too :?

 

[Kim_C]

Thanks hanadr
I never thought of buying a different meter. The one I have was given by my aunt as she had 2. It's an optium exceed and I have looked on ebay for strips and there are very few for this meter. So I will definately look at buying one of those you suggested.

totsy, it really sucks when we can't get basic stuff for our condition.

Thanks again
Kim xx

 

[humph]

I got mine back by writing to my Doctor.

I pointed out the NICE guidelines, then asked if the decision was a clinical one or based on direction from the PCT.

The reply I got was that the decision was the PCT's.

I wrote back stating I wished to complain and was pointed in the direction of NHS direct, the can give you the details of how to complain, but before I started, my test strips were reinstated and I have had no problem since.