Test Strips
Also known as: Glucose Test Strips, Blood Glucose Test Strips
Disposable strips that react with a blood drop to generate a glucose reading on a meter.
Glucose test strips are single-use plastic strips coated with enzymes — typically glucose oxidase or glucose dehydrogenase — that react with glucose in a blood sample. When you apply a small blood drop to the strip and insert it into a compatible meter, a biosensor measures the electrical current produced by the chemical reaction and converts it to a mg/dL reading.
Test strips are brand- and meter-specific: a Contour Next strip only works in Contour Next meters, for example. The FDA requires cleared strips to be accurate within ±15 mg/dL of the true value below 100 mg/dL, or within 15% above 100 mg/dL.
Medicare Part B covers test strips as DME supplies. Coverage is 100 strips per month for patients who don't use insulin, and 300 strips per month for insulin users (with additional strips available if documented medically necessary). Strips must come from an enrolled Medicare DME supplier.
Frequently asked
What is Test Strips?
Disposable strips that react with a blood drop to generate a glucose reading on a meter. Glucose test strips are single-use plastic strips coated with enzymes — typically glucose oxidase or glucose dehydrogenase — that react with glucose in a blood sample. When you apply a small blood drop to the strip and insert it into a compatible meter, a biosensor measures the electrical current produced by the chemical reaction and converts it to a mg/dL reading.
How does Test Strips relate to Medicare coverage?
Medicare Part B covers most durable medical equipment related to Test Strips. Contact us to verify your specific coverage for related diabetic supplies.
Where can I get diabetic supplies related to Test Strips in Phoenix?
We deliver Medicare-covered diabetic supplies throughout the Phoenix metro area. Call us or complete the form above to verify your coverage.