A1c Testing Supplies

What is an A1C Test?

An A1C test is a useful blood test that represents your average blood sugars over a 2-3-month period. An A1C can be used as a diagnostic tool for type 1 or type 2 diabetes or to assess blood glucose control after diagnosis. A1C testing helps you and your diabetes team gauge your treatment plan progress. Other names used for the A1C test are hemoglobin A1C or glycosylated hemoglobin.

A1cNow Self Check At-Home A1C System - 4 Test Kit

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A1CNow Plus Multi Test A1C System - 10 Tests

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Frequently Asked Questions

How is an A1C Test Performed?

An A1C is a simple blood test that can be performed anytime of the day and does not require fasting. An A1C blood test can be performed in an out-patient lab setting, a physician office, or in the privacy of your own home using an at home A1C testing kit.

What does the A1C test measure?

The blood test measures how much hemoglobin (a protein found in red blood cells that carries oxygen) is covered in sugar. The higher the A1C, the more out of control your blood sugars are in that 3-month time span. An elevated A1C can increase the amount and severity of diabetes complications.

Common steps to use an at-home A1C test kit:

Store the kit at room temperature away from heat and humidity or results may be inaccurate.
Check the expiration date on the box. Your results can be inaccurate if the kit is expired.
There are several home kits available on the market. Read and follow the directions for that specific kit for best results.
Most at home A1c testing kits come with 2 testing strips. Check to see if you need to refrigerate the second strip until future testing use.
Wash hands with warm, soapy water and thoroughly dry hands.
Place the droplet of blood from the side of your finger onto the inserted strip. Make sure you use enough blood, or your screen will read "error".
Document your result and share with your diabetes care team to enhance your present treatment plan.

A1c at-home kits: Advantages and Disadvantages?

Advantages:

The results are immediate-5 minutes.
You don't need to wait the full 3 months to obtain information to tailor your diabetes treatment plan.
The out of pocket costs may be half those paid in a lab or physician office setting.
They are easy and convenient.

Disadvantages:

The accuracy may not be as high as a lab.
Different at home kits show better accuracy than others.

What should the A1C range be?

Normal range: 4.5% - 5.6%
Pre-diabetes range: 5.7% - 6.4%
Diabetes range: 6.5% or above
Controlled diabetes: This range should be discussed with your physician and diabetes care team.

Your A1C value should be based on your age, over-all life expectancy, over-all health life quality, existing complications and risk of hypoglycemia. The ADA suggests keeping your A1C as close to 7% or below and the AACE suggests keeping it under 6.5%. Follow your own physician's recommendations of an A1C level especially if you have a heart condition.

Tips to Help Lower A1C Levels:

Daily exercise especially 30 minutes after your meal.
Eating a healthy, whole food, portion controlled diet. Do not skip meals.
Taking your medications properly and on time.
Monitoring your daily blood glucose at times suggested by your diabetes team.
Working with your diabetes care team to meet goals.

Is there an over the counter A1C test?

Yes, you can purchase over the counter A1C test kits from stores such as Walgreens and Walmart, as well as online diabetic supply companies including us. We offer several A1C test kits that will allow you to see your average blood sugars over a 2 to 3-month time frame.

Are home A1C test kits accurate?

While they are more affordable and provide immediate results, A1C test kits may not be as accurate as a lab test. Some kits have been shown to be more accurate than others. At-home test kits simply allow you to get an idea of where your blood glucose levels are and how you are progressing. When you need more detailed, accurate information, you should schedule an appointment with your doctor, generally every 3-6 months.

Is there a way to test your A1C at home?

Yes, A1C test kits allow you to test in the comfort of your home without visiting an out-patient lab or your doctor's office. They are simple to use and offer fast results.

Where can I get my A1C tested?

Your A1C can be tested at your doctor's office, in an outpatient lab, or even in your home using an at-home A1C test kit.