Chit Chat for Diabetics

If you are newly diagnosed with diabetes type 2 you will find a blood glucose monitor very helpful in managing your blood sugar levels in the early days.

A blood glucose monitor is a small device that tells you what your sugar levels are. It's simple to use and these are the steps:

1) Turn your device on (just click button at top or side) and slide the test strip into your device.

2) Prick the top of your finger to obtain a droplet of blood. (pricking on the side of  your ring or middle finger gives best results).

3) Put the droplet of blood onto the test strip and wait - your device will take a moment or so to give you your blood sugar reading.

Once you have that you can adjust if you need to - check with your health professional as to what is suitable for you as everyone is different.

These devices come in many different brands and are available at most pharmacies. You will need the device, test strips and a finger pricking device. Your pharmacist can help you.

When you are newly diagnosed ensure your doctor has advised the NDSS (National Diabetes Services Scheme) of your diagnosis and then you will be subsidised for the device, strips and finger pricker (although these are often free). The NDSS will send you your NDSS card in the mail. You'll need this to show your pharmacy when purchasing strips etc. Cost is approximately $25 per month although once you are more familiar with your diabetes and how you are feeling and not needing to test 2 or 3 times per day this cost will lower as your strips will last longer.

If you are on a pension or disability benefit you will save even more on these.

For those with Type 1 you are now eligible for a CGM  which, as from 1st July, is subsidised at only $32.50 per month. You will need to get your diabetes educator or endocrinologist to register this for you. Your GP cannot.