A number of manufacturers of blood glucose meters provide diabetic clinics with meters to hand out to patients free-of charge. The manufacturers then envisage that these patients continue to use these meters and purchase the recommended test strips.
However, these free of charge meters are more likely to be given to newly diagnosed patients, as established diabetics are inclined to purchase their own.
Turquoise was asked to research the issues surrounding this process from the patients perspective.
Objective
To identify the average rate of blood glucose test strip usage (per day, week, month) for patients using meters obtained either free-of- charge (FOC) from the diabetes clinic or purchased direct from retail outlets
Approach
Through quantitative research we conducted total of 1,000 telephone interviews which was split between those patients who had purchased a meter and those patients who were given them free of charge. The sample was split to comprise of 60% who purchased their meter and 40% who obtained it FOC.
Insight
The results showed clear differences between the patients who received their meter without charge and those who paid. Differences were evident in the way that diabetics learn about Glucotrend and the factors that influence their choice of meter.