Blood Glucose Self-Monitoring Now: Are All Devices the Same?

Self-monitoring blood glucose (SMBG) has become an essential part of diabetes therapy, especially in intensified insulin therapy with insulin dosed ad hoc by measuring blood glucose concentration. There are many different SMBG devices currently on the market. Increasing cost pressure in the health care system does not stop at SMBG, and health insurance companies have been asking pharmacists to switch to cheaper products regardless of differences in quality. This review discusses the development and state of the art in blood glucose monitoring devices, especially with system accuracy in mind, in the light of this current situation. CE-marked monitoring devices vary in system accuracy, device handling, and support provided by the manufacturer. Overall performance as well as the suitability for the individual patient should take top priority in choosing a monitoring device. CE-markings do not represent equal mea surement quality. Manufacturer-independent quality assessment testing could significantly increase quality assurance, providing some transparency required for device comparison. Wise and cost-effective use of monitoring devices relies on comprehensive technical instruction and intensive training in using blood glucose measurements for appropriate therapeutic intervention.