Controlling Diabetes is important to a person's long term health and to avoid severe complications such as Heart disease, blindness, nerve damage and amputation. Tools and supplies such as blood glucose meters, test strips, medications and insulin are vital to the fight for control, but they can be very expensive. For someone without medical insurance or who has a low income, knowing that there are sources of low cost diabetic supplies can offer some peace of mind. Consider this real-life scenario: A middle-aged woman was diagnosed with diabetes. After leaving the doctor's office with a free glucose meter, she went directly to a pharmacy to drop off a prescription for test strips. Returning to pick them up, she was shocked to find that the 100 strips made for her free meter cost well over a dollar apiece. What does someone without insurance or adequate income for supplies do? Free meters are easy to obtain. Manufacturers and retailers often offer a free meter because the money is in the sale of test strips. Examining the cost of strips will help to determine which ones are more affordable. It is important to note that strips are designed for a specific meter; they are not interchangeable except in a few circumstances for meters from the same manufacturer. Most pharmacy and retail chains sell meters and strips under their own name at a lower cost than the frequently advertised name brands. Strips can be bought from online discounters and even through Amazon.com or eBay, but be sure to check the seller's feedback reputation as well as expiration dates noted for any strips. Coupons and programs for discounts can also be found online by visiting the websites of diabetic supply manufacturers. With a little searching, low cost diabetic supplies can be found that won't break the bank. There are also groups and charities that offer low cost or free supplies including medications. Checking with local churches, social services and state assistance resources can turn up free or low cost help. IsletsOfHope.com, SlashDrugCosts.org, NeedyMeds.com and RXAssist.org are websites offering direction in finding resources which include disease-based assistance, coupon listings and more. They are well worth taking the time to check out when seeking low cost diabetic supplies and services.