A1CNOW Self Check (2 count test)

I have been using the A1cNow SELFCHECK since it first came out. Every one has given me excellent results. Among the 3 that I did within an hour of lab tests: One was spot on, one was +0.1% and one disagreed by 0.2%--a slight disappointment, but technically within the +/- one count uncertainty inherent in any digital readout. I no longer waste tests just to compare with the lab, but the tests I do between labs reasonably interpolate between the lab numbers I get. (Just for a chuckle: My doctor and his PAs are severely math-challenged. They keep trying to adjust my medication based on a single, isolated 0.1% change. I've suggested that they read up on W. Edwards Deming--but to no avail. <g>) The test is easy enough to perform, with clear drawings and written instructions. This latest order did not come with the usual mini-DVD, but that video can be found on yout ub e. The more tests I do, the more convinced I am that this is a very useful and accurate product--and the less concern I have that I might just have gotten some 'good ones'. Of course, it is still possible that my string of successes are a fluke, but that probability drops with every good test. This product is not difficult to use. However, the instructions are exacting and I re-read them every time I do a test. In particular, the size of the blood sample and the maximum time after opening the cartridge's sealed pouch are critical. I do product design for a living and have learned to ~never~ blame the customer. If people can't make it work, then either the product needs improvement, or it simply should not be sold. Given the large number of one-star reviews, it seems to me that a lot of people just can't make this product work. And it's also clear from many of their reviews that they are ~not~ all idiots. There is very clearly a problem. There must be something that Bayer can do to reduce the number of test failures, even if they did turn out to be mostly customer-induced. If it were up to me, I'd include calibration samples that test both the customer's technique and the device itself.5 stars for great product, minus 4 stars for how many people have problems!

I personally don't understand the problem other users have with this A1C meter. You do have to follow directions carefully because there are several steps involved when performing the test. If you perform the test haphazardly, then you have a good chance of messing up the test results. As an engineer, I'm naturally meticulous when performing the test. For first time users, I recommend reading over the directions several times. Play-acting the test steps helped me to organize the process and avoiding confusion when doing the actual test. My Bayer A1C tests have always provided consistent and expected results; stated accuracy is approximately +/- 0.1% (a true 7.0% result could read between 6.9% and 7.1%) ... close enough results for me. And what makes you believe a "professional lab" is going to improve on the test results accuracy? My opinion is: The Bayer A1C Now is a convenient time-saving device; providing quick at-home testing versus spending hours setting up an appointment and going to a lab for testing and then going to a doctor to get the test results. Hmmm, about ten minute test time using the Bayer device versus spending hours at the lab and doctor's office; not a difficult decision for me.Another important point made by a diabetic counselor with forty years of experience. More important than the actual accuracy is the direction of the A1C numbers. If the A1C numbers are creeping upwards, that might be a problem. If your A1C numbers stay within an acceptable range, that's OK. If you were recently diagnosed with diabetes, the important thing is to get the A1C numbers moving downward; less important is a precise A1C number. I use the Bayer tester monthly to know where I'm going with my A1C results; up or down. I'm already in an acceptable test region.However, if you unfortunately are a naturally born Klutz, this A1C meter isn't for you. But if you like to be challenged at trying to do things right the first time, then the Bayer A1C Now test is perfect for you and you'll have the feeling of accomplishing something. It's worth the small effort required.And no, I don't work for Bayer. I'm a semi-retired, electronic aerospace engineer that likes to play with new toys.

In spite of some of the reviews, I purchased the product as my insurance will only pay for an A1C once a year even though the Dr. wants the test every 6 months. I was a little skeptical that a home unit could give a meaningful result with a sample that size. But I thought I would give the product a try. I was pleasantly surprised. The kit is easy to use and the instructions are quite clear. Follow them exactly, and the result should be meaningful. For me it was. My A1C lab work four months ago indicated 6.2. This kit indicated 6.3 which I believe is a completely acceptable result given the sample size. If I did not have a lab result to compare, I'm not sure I would have given the same rating. Given that most glucose meters are +/- 20%, I was surprised to see the accuracy. According to published standards, " An individual A1CNow+® result may differ by as much as -1.0% A1C to +0.8% A1C from the true result. This represents the 95% confidence limits of a Bland-Altman plot. Not bad for a handheld unit