November 29, 2000
Blood Tests and Insulin Injections
Question from Wrentham, Massachusetts, USA:
My son was diagnosed three months ago. He has done so well with the shots and the fingersticks, and actually likes visiting the doctor. I feel that this is not going to be the case next month when he needs a blood draw. Our doctor said the hospital will not do an HbA1c through the fingerstick method, although he admits that it is less threatening. He has agreed that we can have it done at an independent lab, and he will accept the results. I cannot find a lab that will do the HbA1c with the finger blood.Would you know of any in my area that I can try? I am at my wits’ end trying to help my son not have to go through any more being held down and traumatized.
Answer:
Puzzling to hear that capillary hemoglobin A1c measurements are not available. We have been doing them in this fashion for the past 20 years — so this is not new methodology! Also, A1c tests are not yet standardized so that there is some difficulty in looking for trends and changes when utilizing different labs. You may want to consider changing doctors if they cannot accommodate your needs. Discuss this not only with your diabetes team, but also with your primary care physician.
SB
[Editor’s comment: See: A1c At Home. You can purchase this on our site.
SS]
