HbA1c At-Home Testing FAQ
Find answers to common questions about our HbA1c testing service
1. About the HbA1c Test
What exactly is an HbA1c test?
The HbA1c test measures how much glucose is attached to hemoglobin in your red blood cells. It provides an average of your blood sugar over the last 2–3 months, rather than a single moment in time.
Why should I take an HbA1c test?
It can help:
• Screen for diabetes or prediabetes
• Monitor existing diabetes
• Track how well lifestyle changes or treatment are working
• Screen for diabetes or prediabetes
• Monitor existing diabetes
• Track how well lifestyle changes or treatment are working
Do I need to fast before an HbA1c test?
No, fasting is not required. The test can be done at any time of the day.
How does HbA1c compare with daily glucose tests?
Home glucose monitoring shows current blood sugar at a single point, whereas HbA1c provides a long-term average. Both are useful, but HbA1c gives a broader picture of long-term control.
Does HbA1c reflect short-term changes?
No. HbA1c reflects average glucose over months, so recent changes in diet or activity may not appear immediately.
What HbA1c levels are considered normal, prediabetes, or diabetes?
• Normal: <42 mmol/mol (<5.7%)
• Increased risk / Prediabetes: 42–47 mmol/mol (5.7–6.4%)
• High Risk / Diabetes: ≥48 mmol/mol (6.5% or higher)
Note: Individual targets may vary. Your healthcare provider can advise what's appropriate for you.
• Increased risk / Prediabetes: 42–47 mmol/mol (5.7–6.4%)
• High Risk / Diabetes: ≥48 mmol/mol (6.5% or higher)
Note: Individual targets may vary. Your healthcare provider can advise what's appropriate for you.
How often should people with diabetes check their HbA1c?
Most people with diabetes test every 3–6 months. Testing may be more frequent if treatment changes or control is unstable.
What do my results mean for my health?
Higher HbA1c levels are linked with greater risk of complications (e.g., nerve, eye, kidney, and heart issues). Lowering HbA1c generally reduces these risks.
Can high HbA1c be concerning even without diabetes?
Yes. Even borderline high HbA1c may indicate metabolic issues. Lifestyle changes like improved diet, exercise, and weight management can help lower HbA1c naturally.
Does this test replace seeing my doctor?
No. Home testing is convenient for screening and monitoring but does not replace professional medical care.
What happens if my result is high?
A high result may indicate elevated blood sugar. Your healthcare provider may recommend follow-up testing, lifestyle changes, or medical advice.
2. Sample Collection and the Device
How old does a child have to be to take an at-home HbA1c test?
The device can safely be used in children aged 2 years and older, when collected by a trained adult.
How much blood is collected?
The device collects 2 drops of blood via a finger prick.
Does it hurt?
There may be a quick pinch, but discomfort is usually brief.
What should I do if the blood drop isn't enough to fill the device?
If the blood does not fully fill the device, a second finger prick may be needed, following proper procedures.
How long does the blood take to dry?
The blood typically dries within 30 minutes. However, you can pack the device in the drying pouch immediately after collection.
How long should we wait before packaging the sample?
You can pack the device immediately in the provided drying pouch after collection.
Can someone else take the test for me (e.g., a family member)?
No, the family member will need to order a new device and provide consent when ordering.
3. Results
When will my results be available?
Once your sample reaches the laboratory, results are usually ready within 2 working days. You will be notified as soon as they are available online. Occasionally, processing may take slightly longer during busy periods.
4. Ordering and Delivery
What should I do if my kit hasn't arrived yet?
Contact info@firstwellnesstesting.com and we'll help trace your order.
Is delivery of the test kit included in the price?
Yes. Shipping to your address is included, as is return postage using the prepaid envelope provided.
Can I change my delivery address after ordering?
Contact us as soon as possible. We will try to redirect your shipment before it is dispatched.
What if I'm not home when the kit is delivered?
The courier may leave your kit in a safe place or at a local pickup point.
5. Miscellaneous
What should I do if I accidentally damage the kit?
Contact customer support at info@firstwellnesstesting.com for more information.
What should I do if I lose my prepaid return envelope?
It can happen to the best ones. Sadly, you will need to pay the postage yourself.