How to save money on a glucose meter

Blood glucose meters are an important tool for anyone who has diabetes. But the cost of testing yourself daily can add up quickly. In Consumer Reports' recent tests, the best glucose meters ranged in price from $15 to $75. But the true expense of those medical devices is the test strips, which can cost as much as $1.65 each. That can add up to $2,410 per year if you test yourself four times per day, and health insurance does not always cover the cost.

Fortunately, there are two blood glucose meter systems we rated excellent for accuracy that use strips that cost just 36 cents each. Both meters cost $15. Here's how to save on the daily expense.

Learn more about a diabetes test you can do yourself, how to find the best blood glucose meters, and which medications are best to treat type 2 diabetes.

• The Up & Up Blood Glucose Meter from Target ($36 for 100 strips) doesn't require much blood to get results (just about the size of a pinhead), which could potentially lower the number of error readings and wasted test strips. It also beeps when enough blood is applied to the strip. This meter will calculate 14, 30, and 90-day numerical averages and trend graphs, which you can download to your computer. Plus it does not require the added step of coding the test strip vial with the meter like some other systems. Besides using your finger, you have the option of testing blood from your palm or forearm (just make sure to read the instructions carefully). The meter also calculates breakfast, lunch, dinner, and bedtime averages based on the time of day that the readings are taken. Other features include large digits, a backlit screen,  a reading in as little as 5 seconds, and storage of up to 300 readings.

• The ReliOn Micro from Walmart ($36 for 100 strips) is a compact meter that you can easily slip into your pocket or your purse. And it requires even less blood than the Up & Up to get a reading, though it takes a few seconds longer. The meter will beep when you apply enough blood to the test strip and beep when the test has ended. It will calculate 7, 14, and 30-day averages. You have the option to attach pre- and post –meal markers to help you categorize and identify your results. You do not have to enter a calibration code into the meter, but you must verify that the number on the meter's screen matches the number printed on the strip vial when the strip is inserted. It only stores 50 results and doesn't claim to be able to be downloaded to a computer. Besides the finger, you also have the option to test the blood from your palm. According to the box, ReliOn test strips are covered by most insurance and Medicare Part B.

Diabetes multiplies the risk of heart attack, stroke, possibly cognitive decline, and certain cancers. But routinely measuring your numbers can help keep the condition under control, which can help keep you alive.

—Sue Booth