October 17, 2005
Remember that the information presented here is not intended to replace the care of your own doctor. Before making any changes in the management of your own illness, you should consult your physician or other qualified medical professionals.
Question
I am 80 years old, have Medicare to help, and my provider says I can have only 100 blood glucose test strips. When someone on Medicare tests many times per day, how can he/she get enough test strips?Answer
Medicare sets coverage standards for the number of diabetes testing strips beneficiaries can obtain. Medicare will cover 100 strips per month those who use insulin, and 100 strips every three months for those who do not use insulin.If your physician prescribes a higher rate of testing, you can attempt to appeal to the DME carrier for coverage of a greater amount. However, you will have to obtain a statement from your physician justifying the need for greater testing and the theraputic benefit you would achieve. Contact your provider to learn how to file your appeal.
Good luck!
