Self-monitoring of blood glucose: a pilot review: impact of computer software modifications on compliance.

the basis of clinical evidence showing that periodic HbA1c testing was usually sufficient for monitoring glycemic control.3,5,9,13 The guidelines also provide recommendations for SMBG in patients who are using insulin.3 As a result of the VHA/DoD recommendations, VISN 3 implemented guidelines that allow two test strips per week (about 24 strips every 90 days) for diabetic patients not using insulin. However, prior to November 1, 2006, because of the limitations of the available computer software package that allowed for a maximum 90-day supply and the contracted test strip package size of 50, our local VISN 3 guidelines stated that patients who were not using insulin were limited to 50 test strips for a 90-day period unless the health care provider could document that the patient needed additional strips. After November 1, 2006, the medical centers in VISN 3 implemented a modification of the computer software package that allowed more precise compliance with the VHA/DoD guidelines. Patients who were not using insulin could receive 50 strips for 180 days (two strips per week) unless more strips were warranted. The VISN 3 network’s P&T committee advised health care providers about the new software and guidelines on the limited use of strips for patients not using insulin.