From the reading room · 25 Aug 2025
Is your BGL machine too old?
By Nick Buete
Why Keeping Your Blood Glucose Monitor Up to Date Matters
For people living with diabetes, self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) is a cornerstone of day-to-day management. A blood glucose monitor (glucometer) provides immediate feedback, helping guide food choices, physical activity, and medication use. But just like any health device, technology evolves—and using an outdated meter can reduce accuracy and limit the support you receive from your healthcare team.
Why Accuracy Matters
Accurate blood glucose readings are critical to:
Adjusting insulin or medicines safely – small errors can lead to incorrect dosing.
Identifying hypoglycaemia or hyperglycaemia early – timely action prevents complications.
Long-term health outcomes – keeping within target ranges reduces the risk of eye, kidney, and nerve complications.
Standards such as ISO 15197:2015 set minimum accuracy requirements for glucose meters. Many older devices no longer meet these benchmarks.
Advances in Technology
Recent years have brought improvements that benefit patients:
Better accuracy – newer meters are tested against tighter quality standards.
Improved usability – larger displays, simpler interfaces, and memory functions.
Smaller blood samples & faster results – reducing discomfort and encouraging adherence.
Connectivity – many modern devices can link to apps or share data with healthcare providers, making reviews more effective.
These improvements mean that keeping your meter current isn’t just about convenience—it’s about safety and quality of care.
Risks of Using Older Devices
Continuing with an outdated glucometer may:
Provide results outside accepted accuracy standards.
Be incompatible with modern testing strips (which are often discontinued after several years).
Lack features that support effective monitoring, such as memory logs or averaging functions.
Outdated devices can therefore affect both self-management and the clinical advice you receive.
The Australian Context
National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS): In Australia, the NDSS supports people with diabetes by subsidising blood glucose test strips for eligible individuals. Meters listed through NDSS meet Australian regulatory standards.
Regulation: All blood glucose monitors supplied in Australia must be registered with the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). Devices not listed may not meet local accuracy requirements.
Healthcare support: Pharmacists, diabetes educators, and GPs can guide you in choosing an up-to-date meter suited to your needs and ensure it is correctly set up.
What You Can Do
Check your device age – if it is several years old, ask your pharmacist whether it still meets current standards.
Review test strip availability – discontinued strips may signal it’s time to update.
Discuss with your care team – they can recommend a suitable device and provide training.
Stay informed – technology changes rapidly; keep an eye on NDSS and TGA updates.
Final Thoughts
Blood glucose monitoring is more than a routine—it is vital for safe and effective diabetes management. Ensuring your device is accurate, reliable, and supported under Australian standards helps you and your healthcare team make the best decisions for your health.
If you’re unsure whether your blood glucose monitor is up to date, speak with the pharmacists at Gardens Compounding Pharmacy. We can help check your device, explain current technology, and ensure you have the right tools for managing your diabetes confidently.