Evaluating the Accuracy of Modern Glucose Meters

Background: Self-mmonitoring of blood glucose (SSMBG) is important for all patients with diabetes, as it provides valuable feedback on the effects of diet, exercise, and medications. To maximize the potential benefits of SMBG, clinicians must have confidence in the accuracy of their patients' glucose meters.Objective: The aim of this article is to review several issues related to glucose meter accuracy and ways that accuracy can be enhanced.Methods: A MeDLINE search of English-language articles using the terms SMBG, glucose meter,and accuracy as an initial screen was performed. After articles describing the use of outdated technologies or vague methodologies were excluded, appropriate articles that analyzed various aspects regarding meter accuracy were selected.Results: Glucose meter accuracy studies are complicated by issues related to the reference method, the sample being assayed, nd he ay n which accuracy s reported. error rid analysis ives linicians a means to valuate the clinical importance of meter error. Modern glucose meters have many technological improvements and enhanced clinical accuracy; however, the accuracy of readings depends not only on the instrument but also on patient technique and other aspects of the overall testing process.Conclusions: SMBG has proven to be a valuable tool for the management of diabetes whether it is used to guide insulin dosing, provide feedback on the effect of meals, or detect hypoglycemia. Accuracy of SMBG can be optimized by patient education and continued improvements in meter technology.