The American Diabetes Association (ADA) is committed to protecting our community. Recently, reports have surfaced of scams involving blood glucose meters (BGMs), test strips, and other diabetes supplies. Scammers often target people with diabetes by offering “discounted” or “free” products, or by promoting devices that are unsafe, unproven, or not authorized by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Here are a few things to know:
- The ADA does not endorse any products, so if you see a claim of endorsement by the ADA of a product, know that it is false. Products in the Better Choices for Life program may bear the mark of the American Diabetes Association®. Such products are not endorsed by the American Diabetes Association®, rather, they are recognized as meeting a set of evidence-based guidelines for products that are suitable for people with diabetes.
- Research the product to ensure it has been approved by the FDA.
- The ADA advises that you only purchase BGMs, strips, and other supplies/devices from licensed pharmacies or trusted suppliers. If in doubt, check with your doctor.
- Never give out Medicare, social security, or insurance numbers to unsolicited callers.
- Remember: If an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
If you see a product that you think may be a scam, please let us know at AskADA@.
