Diabetes screening

Are diabetes screenings covered?

Your PCM determines whether you should get a screening. Talk to your provider about your risk factors and/or any symptoms you may be experiencing.


What is the A1C test?

According to the American Diabetes Association, A1C tests are used to identify prediabetes, diagnose diabetes and monitor how well diabetes treatment is working. The test results give you a picture of your average blood sugar level over the past two to three months. The higher the levels, the greater your risk of developing diabetes complications.


What are the signs and symptoms?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, you may need to see your provider to get your blood sugar checked:

  • Urinate a lot, often at night
  • Extreme thirst or hunger
  • Lose weight without trying
  • Blurry vision
  • Numbness or tingling in hands or feet
  • Fatigue
  • Dry skin
  • Sores that heal slowly
  • Have more infections than usual

Am I at risk?

The following are risk factors for diabetes:

  • Overweight or obese
  • Age 45 or older
  • Have a parent or sibling with Type 2 diabetes
  • Have low High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and/or high triglycerides
  • Physically active less than three times a week
  • Have high blood pressure or take medication for high blood pressure
  • Had gestational diabetes or given birth to a baby weighing over nine pounds
  • Are African American, Hispanic/Latino American, American Indian, Pacific Islander or Alaska native
  • Have been diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)