Service-connected VA and testing strips

[colden]

This is my first post and I need to hear from others, particularly from those who may have changed from Accu-Chek Advantage to Accu-Chek Aviva. In short, Aviva is far superior in terms of comfort and speed, and I want to switch to those strips. I've received the new meter from the company.

The issue I have is with the Veterans Administration who supplies my strips. I have been told by them that although they have the Aviva strips in stock, I will continue getting the Advantage strips unless I can "qualify" for the Aviva. I'm trying to figure out what "qualifying" means. I've had Type 1 since 1970.

If you can help, or if you'd just like to talk, please feel free to comment.

[mortis505]

Go in and see your PCP at the VA. Explain the situation to them in person. Many times the telehealth will only read off the basic "party line" and wont be alot of help.

[colden]

Go in and see your PCP at the VA. Explain the situation to them in person. Many times the telehealth will only read off the basic "party line" and wont be alot of help.

I'm guessing that PCP means personal physician? Or? I'll be talking to him again about this. Last time he said he had no control over the strips. I had a better meter from another VA clinic but I moved and the new clinic didn't supply them. The Aviva is a new development.

[mortis505]

I'm guessing that PCP means personal physician? Or? I'll be talking to him again about this. Last time he said he had no control over the strips. I had a better meter from another VA clinic but I moved and the new clinic didn't supply them. The Aviva is a new development.

PCP is your Primary Care Physician. Also you can request to speak with the pharmacist directly. I do whenever I need something. You may also want to speak with patient advocacy services. What area are you in?

[colden]

The pharmacist said I have to talk to the pcp. The clinic is in Worcester.

[colden]

I now get the Aviva strips :D

[Patient254]

Thanks for the update. I'm certainly glad it worked out for you. I have a Freestyle Flash meter and I got a new Freestyle Lite meter and I too found out I'm going to have to get a new script for the different strips even though it's the same company. Go figure.