It is assumed that glucose meters are accurate if they are FDA cleared, but often that is not the case.

The FDA is currently reviewing and updating the guidelines for glucose meter accuracy.  The 2016 rules called for +/- 20% accuracy for most blood sugar ranges. Many diabetes advocacy groups appealed to the FDA to demand better accuracy since treatment decisions are based on these readings and can dramatically impact outcomes.

A research study by The Diabetes Technology Society Blood Glucose System Surveillance Program, found that in a recent analysis, only 6 of the top 18 glucose meters met the accuracy standards. They demonstrated this lack of consistent and accurate readings through extensive testing of the top meters at different sites (see partial chart below, click on chart for full table).

The new 2019 FDA drafted rules for personal use glucose meters will require:

• 95% within +/- 15% across the measuring range
• 99% within +/- 20% across the measuring range

This data and chart created by the Diabetes Technology Society outlines the accuracy of the most common meters. This published information will hopefully result in more accurate meters and better insurance coverage for meters that meet the standards.  This information is also critical to share with our diabetes participants and colleagues. Click here or on chart for full display

Want more information?

 Join us| Standards of Care 2020 Webinar airs Jan 21, 2020 | 1.5 CEs for $29

This 100 minute course is an essential review for anyone in the field of diabetes. We summarize the 2020 updates to the American Diabetes Association’s Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes and provide critical teaching points and content for health care professionals involved in diabetes care and education.

Earn 1.5 CEs and get ready to lead the charge to implement best care practices for the New Year. 

Coach Beverly carefully reviewed the 2020 ADA Standards with special attention to critical additions and updates.

Topics Include:

• A review of changes and updates to the 2020 ADA Standards of Medical Care
• Identification of key elements of the position statement
• Discussion of how diabetes educators can apply this information in their clinical setting

This course is included in: Level 1 – Diabetes Fundamentals. Purchase this course individually for $29 or the entire bundle and save 65%.

Sign up for Diabetes Blog Bytes – we post one daily Blog Byte from Monday to Friday. And of course, Tuesday is our Question of the Week. It’s Informative and FREE!  Sign up below!

[yikes-mailchimp form=”1″]