My doctor wants me checking my blood sugar 3 times a day. Will Medicare pay for my meter, test strips, lancets, and control solution, and how many strips can I get each month?

Question

Sam Pak · Accepted Answer

Yes, Medicare Part B generally covers blood glucose meters, test strips, lancets, and control solution for people with diabetes when prescribed by their doctor and Medicare's coverage requirements are met.

The number of test strips Medicare normally covers depends on whether you use insulin. If you use insulin, Medicare typically covers up to 300 test strips and 300 lancets every three months, which averages about 100 per month. If you don't use insulin, the standard allowance is 100 test strips and 100 lancets every three months, or about 33 per month.

Since your doctor wants you to check your blood sugar three times a day, you'll need approximately 90 test strips per month. If you don't use insulin, that exceeds Medicare's standard allowance. However, Medicare can cover additional strips when your doctor documents why more frequent testing is medically necessary and the additional coverage requirements are met. You may also need to keep a record of your daily blood sugar readings.

Under Original Medicare, you generally pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount after meeting your Part B deductible. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, your cost-sharing and supplier requirements may differ.

My recommendation is to have your doctor write a prescription specifying how often you need to test and make sure your pharmacy or medical equipment supplier accepts your Medicare coverage. This can help avoid unexpected costs or delays in getting your supplies.

Ann Sanfelippo · Answer

Yes, Medicare Part B generally covers blood glucose meters, test strips, lancets, and control solution when prescribed for diabetes. If you use insulin, Medicare typically covers up to 100 test strips and 100 lancets per month; if you don't use insulin, the standard allowance is 100 of each every three months. Since your doctor wants you testing three times daily, Medicare may cover additional supplies when your doctor documents the medical necessity and your supplier meets Medicare's requirements. With Original Medicare, you generally pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount after meeting your Part B deductible, although supplemental insurance may cover some or all of that cost. Check with your doctor and a Medicare-enrolled supplier to confirm your prescription, approved quantities, and out-of-pocket costs.

Answered by Ann Sanfelippo on November 11, 2026

Broker Licensed in FL, AL, AZ & 14 other states

Answered by Ann Sanfelippo Medicare Insurance Agent

Bernadette Simeon · Answer

Yes, Medicare Part B covers your meter, test strips, lancets, and control solution with a prescription. The amount of test strips depends on if you use insulin. For those on insulin, up to 100 test strips and lancets are covered each month. If you're not using insulin, 100 test strips and lancets are covered every 3 months. If you're on Original Medicare, it would usually cost 20% after the Part B deductible. If you have a Medicare Advantage plan, you should verify the plan's preferred brands as many charge $0 for meters and test strips with higher costs for other brands.

Answered by Bernadette Simeon on November 7, 2026

Broker Licensed in FL

Answered by Bernadette Simeon Medicare Insurance Agent

Anna Crichton · Answer

Medicare Advantage Plans provide for diabetic monitoring supplies at no charge. This includes a meter, lancets and strips. 
If you use insulin you are entitled to 100 lancets and strips per month, if you do not use insulin 33 strips per month.  • If you do not use insulin, your doctor will need to submit a prior authorization or quantity limit exception explaining why testing 3 times daily is medically necessary.

Angel Cayocca · Answer

There are stipulations and documentation needed from a Dr typically. The amount of strips medicare will cover is up to 300 strips every quarter (amount will very based per case) at 80%.

My doctor wants me checking my blood sugar 3 times a day. Will Medicare pay for my meter, test strips, lancets, and control solution, and how many strips can I get each month?

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My doctor wants me checking my blood sugar 3 times a day. Will Medicare pay for my meter, test strips, lancets, and control solution, and how many strips can I get each month?

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