Self-Monitoring of Blood Glucose
Also known as: SMBG
The practice of testing your own blood glucose using a meter and test strips — a foundational skill in diabetes self-management.
Self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) refers to the patient-performed measurement of blood glucose using a fingerstick sample and a blood glucose meter. It is one of the core competencies in diabetes self-management education.
For insulin-using patients, SMBG guides dosing decisions: pre-meal readings inform bolus calculations; bedtime readings determine the safety of going to sleep; readings during illness or exercise guide supplemental decisions. Even with CGM, SMBG remains relevant for calibration (some CGM systems), confirming alarm values before treatment, and when sensor readings are unreliable.
For non-insulin-using Type 2 patients, SMBG is less universally endorsed — some guidelines support it for behavior modification feedback; others suggest it adds cost without significant benefit in controlled Type 2. Clinical context and individual patient engagement determine whether structured SMBG adds value beyond A1C monitoring.
Frequently asked
What is Self-Monitoring of Blood Glucose?
The practice of testing your own blood glucose using a meter and test strips — a foundational skill in diabetes self-management. Self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) refers to the patient-performed measurement of blood glucose using a fingerstick sample and a blood glucose meter. It is one of the core competencies in diabetes self-management education.
How does Self-Monitoring of Blood Glucose relate to Medicare coverage?
Medicare Part B covers most durable medical equipment related to Self-Monitoring of Blood Glucose. Contact us to verify your specific coverage for related diabetic supplies.
Where can I get diabetic supplies related to Self-Monitoring of Blood Glucose in Phoenix?
We deliver Medicare-covered diabetic supplies throughout the Phoenix metro area. Call us or complete the form above to verify your coverage.