Diabetic Test Kit: FSA Eligibility

Under IRC 213(d)(1), "medical care includes amounts paid for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease, or for the purpose of affecting any structure or function of the body." This includes medical equipment and devices.

What is a diabetic test kit?

Individuals who suffer from type 1 diabetes (insulin-dependent diabetes) or type 2 diabetes (non-insulin dependent diabetes) are both prime candidates for diabetic test kits, which are invaluable in reading blood sugar levels in the blood before and after daily activities. Testing blood glucose (sugar) levels can be a helpful tool for some individuals with diabetes, while for others, it is a necessary part of their care regimen that must be checked in the event of exercise, food, medication and stress. Irregular blood glucose levels can lead to major health issues, including hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, or diabetic ketoacidosis.

Testing one's blood sugar is an effective means of judging how well a patient's treatment plan is progressing, tracing patterns in blood sugar levels dictated by diet and exercise, monitoring the effect of diabetes medications and quickly identifying when blood sugar levels are too high or low. Individuals with type 1 diabetes will test their blood sugar between 4-8 times per day, while those with type 2 diabetes typically test theirs 2-3 times daily (Mayo Clinic).

What are the types of diabetic test kits?

Diabetic test kits are ideal for individuals who would like to begin blood glucose testing with the convenience of purchasing the necessities in one package, rather than shopping around for separate components. Diabetic test kits usually contain the basics of the blood glucose monitor machine, lancets to draw blood, and test strips compatible with the blood glucose meter.

Some diabetic test kits contain a wealth of potential accessories including carrying cases, a self-test diary to track blood glucose readings and even computer/mobile-enabled components to allow users to record their readings online to make them easier to track or send to medical professionals. These additions will vary based on the price point that the user is willing to meet, but with proper instruction, these test kits should allow users to perform blood glucose testing out of the box.