Are store bought A1C test kits accurate? (blood, diet)

[HarryWarden]

Wal-Mart sells one for just over $20. Wondering if anyone knows how accurate they are compared to a test done in the doctor's office? And related, how easy they are to use?

[jambo101]

I suppose if done correctly it can be accurate but when i get an A1C test done there is a wide range of other tests done in conjunction with the A1C test including urine sample, so its kinda pointless expense if you then have to go to a clinic or hospital and get blood tests done for a variety of other teats anyway.

[Ed Ferris]

I use the Wal-Mart test kit regularly, that is, twice a year. The results are within 0.2 of the hospital lab test I had done a year ago. The results are also consistent with themselves, not changing much since I don't change my diet much. I find the newest kit easy to use. The old ones with the two paper circles you mailed to Kansas were difficult to fill correctly.

[Gorges]

I didn't know they had these. Must give them a try.