Diabetes is one of the most prevalent health conditions in Canada, with approximately 18 million people living with diabetes or prediabetes. These rates are expected to rise 50 per cent by 2026 (Alberta Diabetes Foundation).

If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, your health care provider has likely talked to you about the importance of managing your condition to reduce the risk of longer-term complications, such as heart attack, stroke, kidney disease, or vision loss.

Why test blood sugar

Regardless of whether you have type 1, type 2, or gestational diabetes, part of your daily routine may involve blood sugar (glucose) monitoring or testing. Your health care provider can advise if you need to monitor your glucose levels and how often you should test. You should always test for a purpose since unnecessary or excessive testing can result in additional stress and personal expense.

If you have type 2 diabetes and are not using insulin (but are taking anti-diabetes drugs), you may not require daily testing unless you have made changes to your treatment plan or are experiencing new symptoms that may relate to low blood sugar (i.e., hypoglycemia). If you have made changes, you should test your glucose levels more often. There is no single, perfect method of glucose testing, but checking your glucose levels will tell you how well you are managing your diabetes so you can stay as healthy as possible.

Types of glucose monitors on the market

There are three different types of glucose monitoring technologies available in Canada. Your health care provider will recommend the best option for you, based on the type of diabetes you have, your treatment plan, and risk of severe low blood sugar.

Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM)

This device is often recommended for individuals with type 1 diabetes using insulin pumps to administer insulin therapy. It includes a small disposable sensor that is worn under the skin (often on the stomach or arm). The sensor tests sugar levels every few minutes and sends this information to an attached transmitter and, usually, to a separate receiving device, such as a smart phone app. CGM devices can also be paired with an insulin pump, which dispenses insulin when your glucose levels drop too low.

Intermittent Glucose Monitoring or Flash Glucose Monitoring (FGM)

This newer technology works like CGM except that it requires you to scan your sensor to access your blood glucose information. Each time you flash your sensor, you can access the last eight hours’ worth of data (helpful if you are monitoring your overnight levels). The results include your current blood sugar levels and the direction your blood sugar is going. These devices require you to scan your sensor several times a day and are not recommended during episodes of active low blood sugar.

Traditional Glucose Monitoring

These monitoring supplies require an individual to prick their finger with a lancet and insert a glucose test strip into a monitoring device for immediate results. These devices are simple to use, provide real-time information, and can be used as often as needed depending on how much information you require to monitor your glucose levels.

What is the best time to test my glucose levels?

The best times to check your blood sugar are before meals and at bedtime, or anytime you feel unwell due to illness, stress, or if you suspect you have low blood sugar. If you are unsure about when to test, check with your health care provider or diabetic care team for advice.

Is my ASEBP coverage for glucose monitoring changing?

As of January 1, 2025, ASEBP is streamlining its coverage for diabetes testing products and supplies, based on insulin dependency. Log into My ASEBP (click Benefits, then select Usage Summary) to see your available coverage. You can also contact a benefit specialist for more information.

Please note that this coverage will automatically update on January 1, 2025, when your general health benefits refresh, and 2025 plan changes take effect.

The information provided in this article is for personal use, reference, and education only. ASEBP does not provide medical advice. Before starting any medication or product, you should always consult with your pharmacist, physician, nurse practitioner, or call Alberta Health Link at 811.