Option for BD Logic user

[Tony]

Abbott Lab's announced it will provide a free Abbott blood glucose meter and a starter supply of strips to all Becton, Dickinson and Company blood glucose monitoring patients using BD Logic® meters and test strips.




LifeScan also announced that they will provide a meter and a starter supply of test strips free of charge.

[URL=] http://biz.yahoo.com/prnews/060929/nyf114.html?.v=17 (]http://biz.yahoo.com/prnews/060929/cgf015.html?.v=70[/URL)

[spike]

"http://biz.yahoo.com/prnews/060929/cgf015.html?.v=70"

link doesn't work for me, Tony.

[Tony]

Sorry, I fixed it.

[Lynne1]

Thanks, Tony! I'm getting the new Freestyle Freedom by Fed Ex on Tuesday.:dancing2:

[Tony]

You called already. Are they giving any extra strips other then the 10 that come with the meter?

[Lynne1]

You called already. Are they giving any extra strips other then the 10 that come with the meter?
I didn't ask. Let me know if you are able to get extras.

[Tony]

I haven't called yet, because I'm undecided on which one to go with.

The freedom meter isn't even in stores yet.

[Funnygrl]

I haven't called yet, because I'm undecided on which one to go with.

The freedom meter isn't even in stores yet.
Get the Flash! You won't be disappointed! If it includes a significant amount of strips, I wanna see if I can trade in my 10 BD Logics that no worky for 10 starter kits. :evil:

[camjen1]

How do they know whether a person is a Becton, Dickinson's BD Logic user?

I would go with the Freestyle Freedom since it's the newest addition to the family.

[koblenz]

OK, I just called. They want you to read off the meter model and serial number from the back of the BD meter. I think that is how they are verifying. You DON'T have to send it in. I keep my BD at work as a "backup" so I will have to wait until Monday to do it.

I asked about how many free strips they send and she wouldn't tell me. I'll try again on Monday.

Muh ah ha ha ha ha ha ha ha

[camjen1]

Which did you choose Kob? I'm calling right now! :)

[koblenz]

I am going to choose the Flash (Mini), but again, I can't call back until I have the meter in hand.... and I am NOT driving back to work tonight. :stupid:

[camjen1]

Mini is for Canada Kob.

[Tony]

So we have one vote for flash and one for freedom. :dontknow:

[koblenz]

I know. I was trying to include our Canadian brethern... eh?

[camjen1]

Alright people I just spoke with the nicest young man ever. I got the freedom but just realized it doesn't have a light. Mine will arrive Thursday by Fedex. He did not take my serial # on the back of my meter. Also Abbott has no idea why they are doing this. They found out today after a call from BD but got no explanation. :dontknow: We will get 10 strips with the kit. He also stated they have only gotten 2 other phone calls for the meters and are still confused at what is going on.

Sorry if it sounds weird above but I was typing as he was talking.

[Tony]

He also stated they have only gotten 2 other phone calls for the meters
lol.. That would Koblenz and funnygrl

[koblenz]

Well, you know what they say.... the best kind of stuff is free stuff!

[camjen1]

This supervisor was hilarious! He told me that he talked to a diabetic the other day that requested to speak with a supervisor about how Abbott is hiding the cure and how because they are greedy he has to pay for strips for the rest of his life. :laugh:

[Tony]

I went with the freedom. And Freedom will be here on Wednesday. I couldn't get two so I will have my mom call for the flash. My back meter needs replacing too doesn't it?

[camjen1]

Well that's not fair! I called before you and mine will be delievered Thursday. :bawling: :) Did they ask you for your serial #?

[Tony]

Well that's not fair! I called before you and mine will be delievered Thursday. :bawling: :) Did they ask you for your serial #?

I guess it was my charm! Yes she asked for my serial number.

[Funnygrl]

lol.. That would Koblenz and funnygrl
Nope, haven't called yet. I already have two flashes, an xtra, and 2 original freestyles. I am trying to break the meter habit.

[Tony]

Nope, haven't called yet. I already have two flashes, an xtra, and 2 original freestyles. I am trying to break the meter habit.

How do you like the xtra? That tests for ketones too right?

[Funnygrl]

The newer version of the Xtra is cool. Yeah, it tests for Ketones, but those strips are expensive. Xtra is not a bad meter, I'm surprised more people don't use it. I like the Freestyle series better.

The older version of the Xtra was a pita. One button = difficult programming, difficult to navigate memory. Also, it was bulky. Though glowing in the dark and the strip light was cool, they dropped both of those in the upgrade.

[camjen1]

I have an xtra but I agree the strips are expensive. It would be nice for one strip to be multipurpose

[Tony]

I have an xtra but I agree the strips are expensive. It would be nice for one strip to be multipurpose
The cgms's should check for ketones too.

[trowter]

I just called and ordered a new freedom. She wanted my serial number, but when I couldn't find the meter, she just sent me one anyway...
I really wasn't lying when I said I couldn't find it...I've got 2, and neither work, so I've hidden them away only to be used as a last resort

[JasonJayhawk]

Get the Flash! You won't be disappointed! If it includes a significant amount of strips, I wanna see if I can trade in my 10 BD Logics that no worky for 10 starter kits. :evil:

This had me laughing! I have a bunch of BD Logic meters, too. I just threw out a funny looking rectangular-shaped BD meter that had a place to store an insulin pen -- it was long out of warranty.

[JasonJayhawk]

Tony,

If you want to read your glucose values in the middle of the night (because it has a lamp), get the Flash. If you do all your testing with adequate light, the Freedom has a larger screen. That's the biggest feature difference that I think you'll notice.

[Funnygrl]

I threw out a couple too since they long ago stopped working. I seriously had so many problems. Batteries would die after 2 tests, screens going dead for no reason, results dropping from memory, errors errors errors, it reading 200 when I was 70. Gesh.

[Tony]

I edited my first post to added that lifescan also announced on Fri. that they will provide a meter and a starter supply of test strips free of charge to BD logic users.



I see Spike running to the phone now!:call: :vroam:

[Funnygrl]

I wanna ultra2!

[JediSkipdogg]

Ultra Mini here I come....

[Tony]

Ultra Mini here I come.... You have the bd logic?

[JediSkipdogg]

I'm sure I have one somewhere in my box of meters I don't use. I haven't used anything as my "main" meter besides the Ultra Smart since it came out. I just get new meters whenever I can to try them out and see what I like about them.

[JasonJayhawk]

Hot Diggity ****! I found three BD meters today during a cleansweep. One to my address, one to my parents', one to my in-laws'. My Flash is old and needs a new battery! :****mate: :adore: :adore: :adore:

[Dewey]

I have a BD meter, but feel so bad turning it in for another Flash, when I already have a couple on hand. :o For some silly reason, I get a "guilty" feeling, like I'd be taking it from someone else who really could use it instead. It's for that reason that I opted not to call about the meter.

[Lynne1]

lol.. That would Koblenz and funnygrl
And me, too.

[Lynne1]

I edited my first post to added that lifescan also announced on Fri. that they will provide a meter and a starter supply of test strips free of charge to BD logic users.



I see Spike running to the phone now!:call: :vroam:
OMG, I'm so glad BD sent me all of those logic meters I never use anyhow. Cool.

[Tony]

I have a BD meter, but feel so bad turning it in for another Flash, when I already have a couple on hand. :o For some silly reason, I get a "guilty" feeling, like I'd be taking it from someone else who really could use it instead. It's for that reason that I opted not to call about the meter.

We always have people here looking for meters, so now you can order one with no guilty feelings.

[Lynne1]

I don't know whether to get the Ultra Mini, Ultra Smart or ultra II. I don't know whether it's necessary to get the bells and whistles on the Ultra Smart when the Ultra Mini is so cute and tiny. I think I may go for tiny since I probably won't use the tools on the Ultra Smart that often.

[Tony]

If it makes a difference, the cost to buy one is;

The mini $20
Ultra2 $70
Ultrasmart $90

[Lynne1]

If it makes a difference, the cost to buy one is;

The mini $20
Ultra2 $70
Ultrasmart $90
Good to know. I think I have 3 logics and 3 paradigm link meters so I can get an UltraSmart and a mini in addition to the Freedom. Thanks for the info.

[JediSkipdogg]

If it makes a difference, the cost to buy one is;

The mini $20
Ultra2 $70
Ultrasmart $90

Walmart has them alot cheaper. I can't find them online with them, but I know the Mini is something like $18.22. The Ultra2 is like $30 and both the Ultra1 and UltraSmart are $70. I never understood the Ultra2 price, why would anyone pay twice as much for a dumber meter?

Freestyle Freedom...not sure if this is nationally or not, but in today's ads, Walgreens had the Freedom for $10 with a $10 rebate. So that makes it a free meter besides taxes. Just thought I'd pass that on as well.

[Tony]

but I know the Mini is something like $18.22. The Ultra2 is like $30 and both the Ultra1 and UltraSmart are $70. I never understood the Ultra2 price, why would anyone pay twice as much for a dumber meter?

I'm confused here You have the ultra2 at 30 and saying it is double in price. Why is the ultra2 a dumber meter? You mean compared to the ultrasamart, which does more.

[JediSkipdogg]

I'm confused here You have the ultra2 at 30 and saying it is double in price. Why is the ultra2 a dumber meter? You mean compared to the ultrasamart, which does more.

No, the Ultra2 and the original Ultra. The original Ultra is twice the price of the Ultra2 at Walmart.

[Dewey]

We always have people here looking for meters, so now you can order one with no guilty feelings.
Good point, Tony. Ok, you changed my mind! ;)

[camjen1]

I have a BD meter, but feel so bad turning it in for another Flash, when I already have a couple on hand. :o For some silly reason, I get a "guilty" feeling, like I'd be taking it from someone else who really could use it instead. It's for that reason that I opted not to call about the meter.


Dewey we are not turning our meters over. We get to keep them! Also for me they never did require my serial #. So don't feel bad, you need to call and get allt he free goodies as possible.

We deserve to be pampered once and awhile.

[camjen1]

Does anyone know what meters Lifescan is giving out?

[Tony]

They make these meters every day, it's not like they are hard to come by.

[spike]

I don't know whether to get the Ultra Mini, Ultra Smart or ultra II. I don't know whether it's necessary to get the bells and whistles on the Ultra Smart when the Ultra Mini is so cute and tiny. I think I may go for tiny since I probably won't use the tools on the Ultra Smart that often.

I don't use the US's bells and whistles, other than the backlight. My "go to" meter is now the Mini. The Ultra2 didn't stand a chance as my "#1" once I found out about the Mini.

[Lynne1]

I don't use the US's bells and whistles, other than the backlight. My "go to" meter is now the Mini. The Ultra2 didn't stand a chance as my "#1" once I found out about the Mini.
Is it the smallest meter on the market?

[spike]

Is it the smallest meter on the market?

No. there is one that sits on top of a vial of strips, and years ago, Medisense made one the size of a pen, but it took a magnifier for me to see the readout. Just like the buttons on a cell phone, smaller is NOT always BETTER.

[Dewey]

Is it the smallest meter on the market?
Actually, the One Touch Mini is the "slimmest" meter on the market. In terms of overall size, the Freestyle Flash is extremely small, but slightly wider than the Mini. That said, the Mini is longer & has far less features, but a larger font size. It's all about personal choice...

[spike]

. That said, the Mini is longer & has far less features.

Less features, more accuracy... :)

[Lynne1]

Actually, the One Touch Mini is the "slimmest" meter on the market. In terms of overall size, the Freestyle Flash is extremely small, but slightly wider than the Mini. That said, the Mini is longer & has far less features, but a larger font size. It's all about personal choice...
I'll have to get one of each to compare! :thumbsup: This is like being a kid in a candystore!!!

[Tony]

Can you download your readings to a computer with the mini?

[spike]

Can you download your readings to a computer with the mini?
No
-------------

[Funnygrl]

Less features, more accuracy... :)
My Freestyle Flash is more accurate than my Ultrasmart against the lab. My Freestyle Flash is consistantly within 1 of what the lab says.

[Lynne1]

I threw out a couple too since they long ago stopped working. I seriously had so many problems. Batteries would die after 2 tests, screens going dead for no reason, results dropping from memory, errors errors errors, it reading 200 when I was 70. Gesh.
I've had some problems w/the paradigm link meters when the batteries were low. How would you know that your bg was 70 when the Logic read 200? Do you trust your other meter that much?

[camjen1]

Ok please clue me in, are we assuming they are offering Ultra Mini, Ultra Smart or ultra II? It sounds as if they were only offering the Ultra which I have a few of. :confused:

[spike]

My Freestyle Flash is more accurate than my Ultrasmart against the lab. My Freestyle Flash is consistantly within 1 of what the lab says.

It's not as accurate in the under-70 range. We've got 3 or 4 Flashes that we've tested zillions of times against the LifeScan meters and the Flash don't give reliable results below 70. It reads about 8-12 points too high, and for me that means that at my "turning point" of 59, the Flash reads a "take no action" 70 or more. Besides which, you need vision like an eagle to read those ridiculously TINY numbers on the Flash, the numbers are too close to the top of the screen, making the sevens and ones hard to distinguish from one another in less than perfect lighting. It's no wonder they put a backlight in that meter--I need it just to be able to read it during the day. In case anyone is wondering how I feel about the Flash...I HATE IT! :)

[JediSkipdogg]

Here's a chart with a lab study comparing the two...

http://images.medscape.com/images/541/546/art-ajhp541546.fig1.gif

[Funnygrl]

I've had some problems w/the paradigm link meters when the batteries were low. How would you know that your bg was 70 when the Logic read 200? Do you trust your other meter that much?
I had a few other meters to test is against. They all said around 70. The Logic even did when I retested a few times. Plus, at the time, I was hypoglycemic (not diabetic) and I never got a reading of 200.

[Funnygrl]

Here's a chart with a lab study comparing the two...

http://images.medscape.com/images/541/546/art-ajhp541546.fig1.gif
Looks like they are both pretty accurate to me.

[JasonJayhawk]

I have a BD meter, but feel so bad turning it in for another Flash, when I already have a couple on hand. :o For some silly reason, I get a "guilty" feeling, like I'd be taking it from someone else who really could use it instead. It's for that reason that I opted not to call about the meter.

Guilty as the CEO's of the meter companies expanding their underground swimming pools? Don't worry, they will always build more meters -- they are not donating them, as they are soliciting your $3000+/year business.

[spike]

Looks like they are both pretty accurate to me.
I always believe my own experience, over ANY type of study...

[camjen1]

Does anyone know what meters Lifescan is giving out?

Ok please clue me in, are we assuming they are offering Ultra Mini, Ultra Smart or ultra II? It sounds as if they were only offering the Ultra which I have a few of.

hmpf I guess I have been put on ignore.:(

[Lynne1]

hmpf I guess I have been put on ignore.:(
I'm not ignoring you. :hello: I just don't know the answer yet. I'm going to wait to call until I have all of my BD meters and their serial numbers in hand so I can coordinate w/friends so I can get as many as possible. :call:

[gettingby]

hmpf I guess I have been put on ignore.:(
Sandi, from what I could interpret on the site, it will probably be an Ultra. I just don't see them giving away a new Ultra 2 or a Mini. Right now, I believe the Ultra is their cheapest meter. I could be wrong. I have been before and probably will be again. LOL.
Don't feel bad, I'm probably on his ignore list, also. LOL. :-

[JediSkipdogg]

hmpf I guess I have been put on ignore.:(

I don't know the answer as I haven't tried calling yet. I'm waiting till tomorrow when normal customer service hours are in operation to call. Then I'm trying to get a Mini, as that is the cheapest meter they sell as it's the ONLY modern one under $20.

[Tony]

hmpf I guess I have been put on ignore.:(

Did you have a look at the second link I posted in my first post? I don't know how official it is, but it doesn't say the meter must be an ultra. Which meter you looking to get?

LifeScan, Inc, announced today that it will provide a OneTouch® Brand Blood Glucose Monitor and a starter supply of test strips free of charge to any diabetes patient that monitors their blood glucose with a BD Logic® Monitor and BD(TM) Test Strips from Becton, Dickinson and Company.

[camjen1]

I didn't mean it to come out the way some had read it. If you insert a little sarcasm into it I think you'll read it just the way I wanted all of you to read it.

I in no way would wan't another Ultra. I have plenty of them! Of course I would want one of the new fancy ones. I hope someone will post back when they do find out what are the choices. I can see them only allowing just the Ultra because I tried to get a free Ultra smart and they were total jerks about it.

[Tony]

I just got off the phone with lifescan. Let me tell you, Alfred was here for me and not just doing his job.

He wanted to make sure I was getting the right meter. He gave me two options that he thought would be best to go with, Ultra2 and Ultrasmart. He explained the features of the two. I went with the Ultra2. They are out of stock on the ultra so I couldn't go with that. Not that I wanted to because I have one those.

Oh he also walked me through the lifescan website.

[Tony]

I in no way would wan't another Ultra. I have plenty of them! Of course I would want one of the new fancy ones. I hope someone will post back when they do find out what are the choices. I can see them only allowing just the Ultra because I tried to get a free Ultra smart and they were total jerks about it.

You have your choice, you can go with the Ultrasmart if you like. You should call tonight. Alfred said they are there 24/7 if you ever need anything.

[gettingby]

Thanks Tony. I really had serious doubts that they would be giving away a Mini considering how new it is.

[camjen1]

Tony did you have to give a serial #?

Let's see if I can get one delivered before you now. :aetsch:

[Lynne1]

I'm on the phone with them right now and am getting the UltraSmart. They are offering a choice between the Ultrasmart and the Ultra2. They are very, very nice. And the Ultrasmart is compatable with the Minimed Carelink software.

Just found out you need to send back your bd meter when you get the new one, though.

[Tony]

No he didn't ask for the serial number.


I'm sure you could go with the mini, but that would be like downgrading.

[camjen1]

I'm waiting to! He is saying my # on my BD meter is to short. Hmmmmm

The choices are the Ultrasmart and Ultra2. No mini, sorry Cin.

[camjen1]

Mine will be here Thursday. These people are expecting the BD meters to be sent to them after we recieve the free meter. They will provide a prepaid envelope.

Btw, I did go with the Ultrasmart.

[Lynne1]

I'm waiting to! He is saying my # on my BD meter is to short. Hmmmmm

The choices are the Ultrasmart and Ultra2. No mini, sorry Cin.
Did you speak w/Alfred? :call:

[Lynne1]

Mine will be here Thursday. These people are expecting the BD meters to be sent to them after we recieve the free meter. They will provide a prepaid envelope.

Btw, I did go with the Ultrasmart.
That's a good way to cut out the competition.

[camjen1]

Did you speak w/Alfred? :call:


No, I spoke with Sam. LOL

[Funnygrl]

Ok, I think I want an Ultra 2. Did they say how many strips they were sending?

[Tony]

Did you speak w/Alfred? :call:
You spoke with Alfred? Isn't he nice or what?

I forgot to ask when I will receive the meter, as long as it is before Camjen.

Funny,
Just ten strips come with the meter. He said you have to buy the strips.

[camjen1]

He said a container of strips were coming. Which if I remember the strips come in 25 imcrements but then again when I had recieved an Ultra they had a mini container that had I think 10 strips in it.

[camjen1]

You spoke with Alfred? Isn't he nice or what?



I don't think she spoke to Alfred because then she wouldn't have asked me if I spoke with Alfred. I don't think both of us could talk to Alfred at one time. Or could we? :call:

[Lynne1]

You spoke with Alfred? Isn't he nice or what?

I forgot to ask when I will receive the meter, as long as it is before Camjen.
No, I was just being a smart/a. I spoke w/a woman...didn't get her name, but she was very nice. I didn't ask when I would get the meter, but I was thinking of saying I would get it tomorrow just to win the forum competition.
Sorry for the silliness, I'm a little slap happy.

[gettingby]

I'm waiting to! He is saying my # on my BD meter is to short. Hmmmmm

The choices are the Ultrasmart and Ultra2. No mini, sorry Cin.
Doesn't matter one way or the other to me. I don't have a BD. I was just being............you know. :-

[Tony]

These people are expecting the BD meters to be sent to them after we recieve the free meter. They will provide a prepaid envelope.



How are you going to do this if you are using the link meter?

[spike]

How are you going to do this if you are using the link meter?


<g> Exactly!


To all: MM will handle the replacement for the BD Logic Link meter, WHEN a suitable replacement is made available. MM users should NOT be contacting other meter vendors at this time for replacements!!!!!!

[camjen1]

Mine is not a link meter. Was this offer only applying to link meters? If so whoopsie! I have a 511 so my pump never came with a meter.

[JediSkipdogg]

This offer is suppose to apply to those with ANY BD brand meter. Instead of waiting 15 months for them to stop making strips, they are trying to get people switched to their brands now.

If one has a link meter, as long as you don't return it, then when MM comes up with a new solution you can get that new solution.

[Tony]

Mine is not a link meter. Was this offer only applying to link meters? If so whoopsie! I have a 511 so my pump never came with a meter.
Sorry I meant anyone using the link meter. The offer is for any BD meter.

Like Spike said, don't give up your link meter. MiniMed will want it back in exchange for a new one.

[Funnygrl]

Lifescan has great customer support. I bet if you told them you wanted to hold onto you link meter, and told them why, they would still send out a new meter.

[camjen1]

Actually lifescan did say I can mail it back at my convenience.

[Lynne1]

Sorry I meant anyone using the link meter. The offer is for any BD meter.

Like Spike said, don't give up your link meter. MiniMed will want it back in exchange for a new one.
I have 3 link meters and two logics. The BD reps were at the Minimed carb counting event I went to and were giving away meters there. Then my Minimed rep sent me a purple one so I could decide on my pump color. Then I got one w/my pump.

In Late Spring/Early summer I received two logics in the mail for no reason whatsoever. Coming in handy now.

I always wanted to try the Lifescan and Freestyle meters and now I can. I also have a Ascensia and a Aviva that I have tried. I like the ascensia. May the best meter win!

[gettingby]

Wow Lynne. Let us know which meter wins. LOL.

[JasonJayhawk]

I always wanted to try the Lifescan and Freestyle meters and now I can. I also have a Ascensia and a Aviva that I have tried. I like the ascensia. May the best meter win!

Keep in mind, the Ascensia takes 15-20 seconds to return a result. That can burn a lot of time if you test 10 times a day!

The Ascensia is available for free -- check one of the freebie forums such as Fatwallet for details on how to get it (or the Bayer Contour). As both require so much blood and/or test countdown time, I doubt they're of much interest to many!

[Lynne1]

Keep in mind, the Ascensia takes 15-20 seconds to return a result. That can burn a lot of time if you test 10 times a day!

The Ascensia is available for free -- check one of the freebie forums such as Fatwallet for details on how to get it (or the Bayer Contour). As both require so much blood and/or test countdown time, I doubt they're of much interest to many!
I think my fil gave me the Ascensia (he is a pharmacist). I don't have any more test strips so I'll have to check out the website and see how long the results take. Now that I can get results in 5 seconds I hate to wait. I have an Accucheck Advantage that I've used for years and it seems to take forever now! Still have some strips so I'll continue using it until I run out.

[gettingby]

Lynne, I have to say that over the years I have tried many, many, many (did I say many,lol) meters. I really love the Ultra line. I have an Ultra and an UltraSmart. Next purchase will probably be a Mini. I love the 5 sec test time. Meters have come a long way since my very first one. I believe it took at least a minute to give a result and it was huge and bulky.

[Lynne1]

Next purchase will probably be a Mini. The mini is very cute. I'll have to *buy* that one if I can't get it for free.

My friend's daughter uses the COZMO so I can give her the Freedom as a backup if I don't want it.

[Lynne1]

Keep in mind, the Ascensia takes 15-20 seconds to return a result. That can burn a lot of time if you test 10 times a day!

The Ascensia is available for free -- check one of the freebie forums such as Fatwallet for details on how to get it (or the Bayer Contour). As both require so much blood and/or test countdown time, I doubt they're of much interest to many!
You are right. I went to www.ascensia.com and it does take 15-20 seconds. Hmm. But you can get a free Contour or breeze by filling out a form on the website and taking it to the pharmacy. One way to get a free meter. Still, I liked their test strips and their lancet device. In fact, I'm using their lancet device now.

[JasonJayhawk]

you can get a free Contour or breeze by filling out a form on the website and taking it to the pharmacy. One way to get a free meter. Still, I liked their test strips and their lancet device. In fact, I'm using their lancet device now.

Actually, we don't even need to do that much work! There are forms you can fill out on their website to get one of each for free. :D :D (Check the fatwallet.com freebie forums).

The Ascensia uses "microlets", which I don't think work with the lancets from the BD/Abbott/Lifescan/generic lancet devices. I think they own the market for microlets, so they cost a bit more! Do'h!

[Lynne1]

Did anyone get their meter today? I was hoping to be the first :-. I'm getting my freedom tomorrow but I checked the porch today just in case!:)

Got both my meters today. Have to read the manuals and see how to set the date and time and then I'm off!

Anyone else get theirs?

[koblenz]

I just remembered and called in for mine JUST NOW!

[JasonJayhawk]

Got both my meters today. Have to read the manuals and see how to set the date and time and then I'm off!

Anyone else get theirs?

Did you have to send your old BD meter back to either of the companies?

[Lynne1]

Did you have to send your old BD meter back to either of the companies?
I have to send a logic to LifeScan. Just gave the serial number to get the Freedom...and there was no return label in the Freedom box so they are clearly not expecting it back.

[camjen1]

I have to also send the logic back to lifescan. Hmmm I wonder what we would have done if both companies wanted the logic.

[Lynne1]

I have to also send the logic back to lifescan. Hmmm I wonder what we would have done if both companies wanted the logic.They would probably have sent you one anyway since it's a great way for them to get a new customer. If one company refused they would loose out on a lot of business.

[koblenz]

I called Abbott and asked for a FreeStyle Flash. They didn't ask me to send my old BD meter in. We'll see if I get some type of self-addressed return box with instructions to send it in... but they didn't tell me to on the phone!

[camjen1]

Kob now you need to call Lifescan. :) When you call you should ask them how bad they want your Logic. Make them beg for it. :D

[koblenz]

You KNOW I love it when they beg! :D

In fact, I think I will call LifeScan tomorrow and ask for a meter. If they make me send the BD in, so be it!

Muh ah ha ha ha ha ha ha ha :- :- :- :- :-

[Lynne1]

I tried my new meters and I really don't like the Ultrasmart. First of all, the strip doesn't go in easily and the Ultrasmarts readings were way off the Freedom and Paradigm Link. I was high last night and tested with all three. The Freedom and Paradigm Link were w/in 10 pts of each other. The Ultrasmart was 40-50 pts above that. Whoa! Let's see. I'll get the actual numbers (no lectures about my high reading please)
Paradigm 256
Freedom 268
Ultrasmart 303
I just tested...the Paradigm Link read 166, the Ultrasmart read 177 and the Freedom read 158. So the Ultrasmart had less variation at lower numbers.

I will continue my comparison and let you know what happens.

[JediSkipdogg]

I tried my new meters and I really don't like the Ultrasmart. First of all, the strip doesn't go in easily and the Ultrasmarts readings were way off the Freedom and Paradigm Link. I was high last night and tested with all three. The Freedom and Paradigm Link were w/in 10 pts of each other. The Ultrasmart was 40-50 pts above that. Whoa! Let's see. I'll get the actual numbers (no lectures about my high reading please)
Paradigm 256
Freedom 268
Ultrasmart 303
I just tested...the Paradigm Link read 166, the Ultrasmart read 177 and the Freedom read 158. So the Ultrasmart had less variation at lower numbers.

I will continue my comparison and let you know what happens.

You will find alot of people that say the Paradigm link is way off of everything, especially lab tests. I've had no problems ever with the strips on the UltraSmart going in easily or not. Mine go in pretty easy all the time with no problems.

If you want to see an UltraSmart, Ultra2, Accu-Chek Aviva, Freestyle Flash test I did, check this out....

http://www.diabetesforums.com/monitoring/11696-blood-glucose-meter-comparison.html

I have no lab test to confirm which is most accurate, so take that as you may, but the test shows alot of difference. You just have to take what you are comfortable with and feel is right. I feel the UltraSmart matches what my body feels, so I use that one. Others feel differently and use their preferred meter.

[Lynne1]

You will find alot of people that say the Paradigm link is way off of everything, especially lab tests.. I've read that in various posts in the forum. It seems to work for a while and then goes whacky on me when the battery needs replacing, which seems to be fairly often. I actually was planning to ask my endo for strips for the Contour but forgot last time. Now i have time to figure out what other meter I might like. I didn't realize that some folks had tested the Paradigm against lab readings. Hmmm.


If you want to see an UltraSmart, Ultra2, Accu-Chek Aviva, Freestyle Flash test I did, check this out....

http://www.diabetesforums.com/monitoring/11696-blood-glucose-meter-comparison.html
I forgot about that thread. Doesn't seem like the results are that variable.

I have to read Mendosa's suggestions again. I've been meaning to do that.

[camjen1]

Woohoooo I got my goodies today! Haven't checked them out yet but I do know that Lifescan did not send me a prepaid envelope as mentioned so it looks like I get to keep my BD, not like it'll do me any good anyway. Lifescan also sent a total of 35 strips.

[Tony]

The Flash meter arrived today at the parents house. I must say I'm a little disappointed. No test strips came with it. Normally you get 10 with a new meter. How am I to test this little thing out?

[spike]

The Flash meter arrived today at the parents house. I must say I'm a little disappointed. No test strips came with it. Normally you get 10 with a new meter. How am I to test this little thing out?

Heck Tony, if your eyes aren't perfect, you'll not like the ultra-tiny font anyway. Why on earth a meter mfgr would make a meter that's so hard to read, when the users are diabetics!! DOH!

[Tony]

I agree spike , That is indeed very small. They must have been thinking of the young diabetic.

My freedom meter has arrived too. About 10 test strips came with the freedom. Even the freedom is small.

What I don't get is they make small meters but yet, the vial the strips come in is huge.

I'll wait for the ultra2 to come in now and compare the three.

[spike]

I agree spike , That is indeed very small. They must have been thinking of the young diabetic.

My freedom meter has arrived too. About 10 test strips came with the freedom. Even the freedom is small.

What I don't get is they make small meters but yet, the vial the strips come in is huge.

I'll wait for the ultra2 to come in now and compare the three.

Funny you should mention the vial size, Tony. That's the one bugaboo about the Ultra Mini. The strips take up almost as much room in my pocket as the meter. The BD meter vial is tiny, but so tiny I can't get the strips out easily. Can't win!! <g>

Which reminds me--anyone used the meter that's attached to a vial of strips? Forgot who makes it.

[Lynne1]

What I don't get is they make small meters but yet, the vial the strips come in is huge.
I was thinking the same thing. That's one thing i like about my Paradigm Link.

My friend was showing me a meter with an attached lancet device and a drum of 17 test strips in the meter. Now, I think I might like that! It's an ACCU-CHEK Compact Plus. Anyone ever tried it?

[spike]

I was thinking the same thing. That's one thing i like about my Paradigm Link.

My friend was showing me a meter with an attached lancet device and a drum of 17 test strips in the meter. Now, I think I might like that! It's an ACCU-CHEK Compact Plus. Anyone ever tried it?
You might want to do a search. I've mentioned that meter numerous times on this forum. I no longer use the 3 I've got. I've had 3 replaced in the short time I've had them for failures. I've gotten readings that are too high to be safe, unless my bg's are well under 150. Nice form factor, lousy accuracy at the high end...

[Lynne1]

You might want to do a search. I've mentioned that meter numerous times on this forum. I no longer use the 3 I've got. I've had 3 replaced in the short time I've had them for failures. I've gotten readings that are too high to be safe, unless my bg's are well under 150. Nice form factor, lousy accuracy at the high end...
Interesting how one company can make some meters that are accurate and some that aren't!

[spike]

Interesting how one company can make some meters that are accurate and some that aren't!

Yes, and there are features on some meters that I wish LifeScan would incorporate. For example the lighted strip, ala Flash; the drum from the Compact meters. Perfection eludes us... <g>

[koblenz]

OK, just called lifescan and I have a OneTouch Ultra Smart and 35 free strips on the way.

All they asked for is my name, address, and the Phone number off the back of the meter.... that's right PHONE NUMBER. Not serial number.

Uh, OK!

Wooo Hoooo!

[Funnygrl]

I still haven't called Lifescan to see if I can get an UltraII.

One thing I'm conscerned with is already being in their system since I already have an Ultra and Ultrasmart. Anyone experience this?

Can I call now, or does it have to be business hours?

[koblenz]

I called like 20 minutes ago and they were open for business. I was on hold for about 3-4 minutes.

I was already in Abbott's system, but they sent me one already anyway. I don't think I was in LifeScan's system.... but who really knows???

[spike]

I still haven't called Lifescan to see if I can get an UltraII.

One thing I'm conscerned with is already being in their system since I already have an Ultra and Ultrasmart. Anyone experience this?

Can I call now, or does it have to be business hours?

24/7
My wife just got off the phone a couple hours ago with LifeScan. They are sending her an Ultra2 and they want the old BD meter back in a prepaid envelope they will provide.

[koblenz]

The customer service lady never once mentioned anything about sending my old BD back.

Now, doesn't mean I won't a pre-paid envelope asking for it back... just was never mentioned on the phone.

We'll see......

[camjen1]

I never did recieve a prepaid envelope with my goodies today.

[spike]

24/7


I just spoke with my wife about her call to LifeScan. She called a special number listed on the website. 888-430-7226. no hours are listed...

[Dewey]

LMAO! Another big problem for me, is it seems like I'm in Everyone's system! BD, Abbott, Lifescan, Bayer and more. The song, "Nowhere to run to...." comes to mind. lol

[Funnygrl]

Did you try ordering another meter?

[Tony]

I received my Ultra2 with lancets. No test strips and no return envelope. I can't complain about no strips here, because Alfred(such a nice guy) said I will need to buy the test strips.

[kgm0612]

I ordered the Flash and the Ultra 2 yesterday (Weds) and was told by both companies I would have them on or before Monday.

Karen

[Lynne1]

I received my Ultra2 with lancets. No test strips and no return envelope. I can't complain about no strips here, because Alfred(such a nice guy) said I will need to buy the test strips.
That's not fair! I got 35 test strips w/mine! Call back Alfred and say you want some.

[Funnygrl]

Well, called at got an Ultra II on the way though, but I think they were confused caused they were gonna automatically send me an Ulrasmart cause I told them that's what I use now (I don't, but they had me in their system as using it). Trying to decide if I wanna try for a Freestyle Freedom now.