Getting tested for Diabetes
How to get tested for Type 2 Diabetes?
The best way to get tested for type 2 diabetes is to see your GP, explain that you would like to investigate whether you are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes and would like to arrange for an HbA1c test.
What is HbA1c? When the body processes sugar, glucose in the bloodstream naturally attaches to haemoglobin (making glycated haemoglobin) . The amount of glycated haemoglobin is directly related to the amount of sugar that has been in your system over time. Measuring glycated haemoglobin (or HbA1c) provides an indication of blood glucose control. So, an HbA1c test is a good indicator of whether your blood sugar levels are normal, somewhat elevated (pre-diabetes), or in the diabetic range. Because haemoglobin has a life of about three months, the HbA1c test is a measure of your average blood sugar levels over the past three months.
Depending on the result, after you have had the test your GP may want to see you again to discuss any issues and, where necessary, implement any treatment and/or lifestyle changes.
While it is possible to order, and pay for, an HbA1c test yourself, we don’t recommend that because:
- the cost is similar to the cost of a GP appointment; and
- the test result is a simple number and doesn’t have the interpretation that your GP would provide.
However, if you are not enrolled with a GP, you can self-request an HbA1c test. For self-requested tests in the Wellington region see this link https://bodyiq.co.nz/nz. Currently, a glycated haemoglobin test from this service is $83.99 (including GST and service fee), the tests are administered by Awanui Labs in the Wellington region. That service can also connect you with an online GP consultation (for an additional fee) for more information if your test result is abnormal.
It is also possible to purchase a test device that will measure your HbA1c. Several such devices exist, but make sure you purchase one that has CE or FDA-approved markings. For example, the A1cNow device with four tests is available on amazon.com for US$72.99. That device is also offered on AliExpress at a lowish price. Choose carefully as the prices offered by other sellers vary widely and many are ridiculously expensive. Keep in mind that you will need to interpret the text result yourself.
Is there a cheaper option?
A cheap option is to have a casual blood glucose test and this is offered by some pharmacies. Note that this is only a measure of your blood glucose at a point in time and is vastly inferior to the HbA1c test. However, if a casual blood glucose test shows an abnormally high sugar level then that is a strong indication to investigate further with your GP or healthcare professional. You can either get in touch with your community pharmacy to see if they offer blood glucose tests or go to this link to find a pharmacy near you that offers this service: https://www.greencrosshealth.co.nz/store-list?service=13.
Please note that it is best to phone the pharmacy first before visiting in person.
If you cannot locate a pharmacy close to you offering this service, you are welcome to come into the Diabetes Wellington drop-in centre (level 1, Anvil House, 138 Wakefield St, Wellington) between 10:30am and 2:00pm. It is a fingeprick test that only takes a few minutes.
Most importantly you are not alone, if you have any questions or are unsure about anything you have read, please get in touch with us. Come into our drop-In Centre on Level 1, Anvil House, 138 Wakefield Street, Wellington, phone 04 499 5085 or email office@diabeteswellington.org.nz – we are happy to help.