How do I collect my HbA1c sample?
Simply follow the instructions included in your kit. The steps for collection are also listed below. If you have any questions, just reach out to our Member Support Team. Simply call 1-855-923-2678 (TTY: 711). We’re available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, excluding holidays.
For instructions, click on the kit you received in the mail.
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Sample collection instructions
This is a lab test that requires several large drops of blood from your finger. READ ALL instructions from start to finish before you collect your blood sample. DRINK a glass of water 30 minutes before pricking your finger.
Step 1: Complete your paperwork
Fill out your label. Peel the label from the patient info card and stick it onto the sample pouch. Make sure you keep the wallet card until you receive your results.
Step 2: Warm your hands
Wash and clean your hands with soap and very warm water. Rub your hands together for 15 seconds to stimulate blood flow. Massage your hand from your wrist to your fingertip to “push” blood to the end of your finger. This makes it easier to collect your sample.
Step 3: Choose finger
Find a spot on the soft side of your finger tip.
Step 4: Prep your space
Open the bandage and gauze pad. Take the cap off of the lancet.
Step 5: Use lancet
Place the lancet on a flat surface with the red area facing up. Firmly PUSH and HOLD your finger against the red top until it clicks.
Step 6: Bleed into the collection well
Add drops of blood as you wait for the triangle window to turn red. To keep blood flowing, FIRMLY WIPE the puncture site with the gauze pad. FIRM PRESSURE releases any clotted blood.
If the triangle window does not turn red, use the second lancet. Once the triangle is red, place the bandage on your finger. Dispose of lancets in your wastebasket.
Return instructions
- Dry and package your sample
- Let your blood sample air dry for 15 minutes away from heat and humidity. Keep food, dirt or other contaminants away from your sample.
- Open the sample pouch by cutting at the v-shaped notch. Do not remove the desiccant packet from the pouch.
- Place the collection device (that you dripped blood on) inside the sample pouch and tightly seal the pouch.
- Place the sealed sample pouch in the prepaid return mailer. Seal the return mailer. Important: Your blood sample is perishable. Mail your sample the same day you collect it.
Sample collection instructions
Fill each circle completely with blood drops one after another, and be sure to let your collection card dry for 30 minutes. Do not go back to add more blood after your sample has dried.
Step 1: Prep your space
Open the gauze pad and bandage.
Step 2: Fill out card
Write your name, collection date, and your date of birth on the card.
Step 3: Warm your hands
It’s essential to get your blood flowing before you collect. Do this by warming your hands with hot water.
Step 4: Shake your hands
To increase blood flow, shake your hands by your side.
Step 5: Choose finger
Find a spot on the right or left side of your ring finger. Clean the area using the alcohol prep pad.
Step 6: Use lancet
Twist the top off the lancet to open it. Press the lancet down on your finger to puncture the skin. Use the extra lancet if you need more blood.
Step 7: Drip blood
Drip blood into each circle, fully filling each one before moving to the next. Do not touch or tap the collection card. Let the blood drip from your finger. Squeeze the base of your finger for more blood. Do not squeeze your finger too hard.
Step 8: Check card and clean up
Make sure each circle is fully filled and that your blood soaks through the back of the card. Apply the bandage. You did it!
Return instructions
- Double check you completed your collection card. Once your sample is dry, put it inside the biohazard bag (keep the silica gel packet in the bag) and place into the box.
- Place the box in the return envelope using the shipping label provided. Be sure to send your sample right away. It could expire if not returned immediately.