Also called Glycosylated Haemoglobin, Haemoglobin A1cor HbA1c is found in your red blood cells and it helps carry oxygen to all your body tissues. HbA1c forms when glucose circulating in your blood binds to haemoglobin.
As the HbA1c changes slowly, the value at any time reflects the average blood glucose over the months prior to when the sample was collected. At present, this is regarded as the best laboratory test for assessing how well you have managed your diabetes in the last 2-3 months.
Treatment goals for each patient vary and your doctor has probably told you the target range of HbA1c values that you should aim for. Ideally a person with diabetes has anHbA1c level that is close to or within the target range.
Most doctors recommend this test every 3-6 months.
Medicare will provide a rebate for up to 4 tests in any 12month period (6 tests if pregnant) only if the patient is known to the laboratory to have diabetes.To be eligible, your doctor must indicate to us on the request form that you have established diabetes. Otherwise, you may receive an account and incur an out-of-pocket expense.
