Short answer: Medicare Part B covers certain blood glucose testing equipment and supplies for people with diabetes. Covered items include blood glucose monitors, test strips, lancets and lancet holders, and glucose control solutions.
Original Medicare coverage
Blood glucose monitors and related supplies are covered as durable medical equipment. A doctor or other qualified provider must order the items for use in the home. The official Medicare diabetes guide explains the items and standard supply limits.
Part B also covers qualifying continuous glucose monitors under different requirements. Insulin and supplies used to administer insulin may be covered under Part B or Part D, depending on the delivery method. This page addresses standard self-testing supplies.
Eligibility and limits
Medicare’s standard quantity every three months is up to 300 test strips and 300 lancets for a person who uses insulin, or 100 test strips and 100 lancets for a person who does not use insulin. Medicare may cover additional quantities when the provider documents medical necessity and other requirements are met. The person may need to keep records showing actual testing frequency.
Suppliers cannot automatically send refills. They must confirm that the supplies are needed. The ordering provider and supplier must be enrolled in Medicare.
Costs
After the Part B deductible, the beneficiary generally pays 20 percent of the Medicare-approved amount when the supplier accepts assignment. Costs can be higher if the supplier does not accept assignment. Supplies obtained from a seller that is not enrolled in Medicare may not be covered.
Medicare Advantage
A Medicare Advantage plan covers medically necessary diabetes testing supplies but may limit the brands, pharmacies, or DME suppliers used. Quantity rules and prior authorization can differ.
What to do next
- Ask the provider to state testing frequency on the order.
- Use a Medicare-enrolled pharmacy or DME supplier.
- Ask whether the supplier accepts assignment.
- Keep testing records if requesting more than the standard quantity.
Sources
- Medicare.gov: Medicare Coverage of Diabetes Supplies, Services, and Prevention Programs
- Medicare.gov: DME coverage
Last reviewed: August 2026. Medicare rules and plan benefits can change.