can't get in to the dr.'s office until..
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| Thu, 01-08-2009 - 9:32am |
March!!!!
I took everyone's advice (and thank you!) and called up some doctors here in town. I don't have insurance and no primary doctor so I figured I'd probably have to wait a few days, end of the week at worst. Nope! I just now got a doctor's office to call me back and they can see me March 3rd! They told me that in the meantime I should go to the ER if I feel dizzy, notice any heart palpitations, and I should let family members know that it's dangerous if I seem lethargic or can't stop vomiting. Wow. Thanks for the advice, doc!
I called my best friend, and he says to check with the pharmacist about getting a cheap glucose meter in the meantime and use that to get an idea of what numbers I have. I only got a chance to talk to him for a second, so I'm not really sure what he's talking about. I've seen people prick their finger and use a little meter to get a reading. But, I'm not sure what reading would be good or bad. I don't know which kind of meter to look at. Any suggestions?

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Any meter would do - the test strips are where you'd be spending the money since they (and the lancets if the meter uses disposables) are consumables - you use them then dispose of them. The meter is 'durable' equipment - just buy the meter once and it should last quite a while. So, talk with the pharmacist not only about the cost of the meter but also of the testing supplies. It might be worthwhile to pay a little more for a meter that has cheaper supplies. Also, check at WalMart because I think they sometimes have lower prices on testing supplies.
The meter will come with an instruction book on how to test using that equipment.
http://www.joslin.org/managing_your_diabetes_4608.asp has good information on what the test values should be. Note that "after meal" generally means 2 hours after you swallow your last bite, not the minute after your done. Glucose levels rise and fall so it takes some time to see if your glucose level is coming down into range in the proper timeframe.
--Deb
I hate that!!!!
I am in sorta pushy mode today.
I would say look in phone book at medical clinics, and see if there is a listing for diabetic education or similar name.
Just a note.
I was watching a news program last night about getting to see a doctor.
I am sorry you have to wait so long. I hope you will check out your local health department because they may have a family practice clinic that can see you sooner. Also check with your local hospitals because they frequently have community education programs that are either free or low cost and that would certainly help you. I hope you asked the doctor's office to notify you if they had a cancellation to notify you so you could get in sooner.
Please continue to ask your questions around here. We will give you as much information as we can.
,<
Amy
Amy
I went to walmart last nite to check my blood pressure after I worked out at the Y. They do still have the sidekick(?) thats the one with the meter being the cap, and I think it was $19.99.
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I just saw that Walmart has an A1C kit for $10 and $2 for shipping. My doctor is having me come in 4 times a year. It cost a fortune for his regime. I'm wondering if I could just do the walmart test, give it to him, and skip the extra office call, so I can get my diabetic meds.
Amy
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Amy
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