Measuring your glucose levels frequently is a fundamental part of diabetes management. But not all devices are accessible, and their cost can be an economic challenge. Fortunately, there are real and safe ways to get a free glucose meter in Spain and other countries, either through Social Security or promotional programs from manufacturers.
In this article, we explain how to get a free glucose meter, either through public or private means. Also, if you already have one or are about to receive it, we tell you why you should buy the Freestyle sensor case at Glucody and protect it in style.
What is a glucose meter
A glucose meter or glucose monitor is a device that allows measuring and knowing blood sugar levels. It is essential for people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes, as it helps them adjust their treatment, prevent hypoglycemia, and make daily decisions about diet, exercise, or insulin.
They can be classified into two basic types:
- Traditional: Which require pricking the finger and using a test strip to analyze the blood drop.
- Flash or continuous glucose meters (no finger pricks): Like the Freestyle Libre, which use subcutaneous sensors that allow you to know glucose levels without pricking your finger each time.
The latter offer more comfort and accuracy, and are the ones most frequently included in current free programs.
How to get a free glucose meter
Currently, there are two main ways to access a glucose meter at no cost:
- Through the public health system (Social Security in Spain).
- Through promotions from manufacturing companies, such as Abbott or Dexcom.
Both routes are completely legal, safe, and designed to improve the quality of life of people with diabetes.
Government aid
In Spain, the Ministry of Health has promoted free access to needle-free glucose sensors for certain people with diabetes. This measure is part of a national strategy to improve diabetes control and reduce long-term complications.
According to official sources, devices like the FreeStyle Libre are already included free of charge in the public system for:
- Patients with type 1 diabetes of any age.
- Children and adolescents with type 2 diabetes under insulin treatment.
- People with visual or motor difficulties who cannot perform traditional measurements.
This means that if you meet certain clinical criteria and are under treatment, you can obtain a diabetes sensor from Social Security at no cost, as long as it is prescribed by a public system endocrinologist. To access this aid, you must go to your health center or endocrinology consultation, where your case will be evaluated.
Manufacturer offers
In addition to government aid, many leading diabetes technology brands launch campaigns and free trial kits aimed at new users. These offers seek to let people try their devices without commitment, and if convinced, continue using them with sensors or replacements purchased later.
Although it is a commercial strategy, for many patients it represents a great opportunity to access a free glucose meter without relying on the public system or an initial investment.
These types of promotions are especially common in flash glucose meters or continuous sensors, like the FreeStyle Libre, and in some cases also in Dexcom devices or other similar meters.
Manufacturers usually collaborate with pharmacies, endocrinologists, patient associations, or online campaigns to distribute these promotional kits. Also, in some countries like the United States or the United Kingdom, these campaigns are very active and may include:
- A free reader with the purchase of a first sensor.
- Free samples for newly diagnosed patients.
- Special limited-time discounts.
- Access to loyalty programs that offer long-term benefits.
Although in Spain these offers are not so frequent nor always active, it is worth consulting directly with the manufacturer or your pharmacist from
trust. You can also keep an eye on health fairs, diabetes awareness days, or social media campaigns, where these opportunities are often announced.
FreeStyle Libre meter free with the FreeStyle Promise program
Abbott, the company behind Freestyle Libre, has an active program in the United States called FreeStyle Promise, through which you can request a free starter kit. This includes the reader and sensors, or in some cases, significant discounts.
Although in Spain the program is not available under that name, there are temporary welcome campaigns or discount codes that you can check at pharmacies, patient associations, or directly on Abbott's official website.
Another useful way is to consult your doctor to see if they can help you request a free sample to try the device before making a purchase.
How to care for my glucometer?
Once you get your glucose meter, it's important to protect it and adapt it to your daily routine. Many sensors can come off with sweat, fall off during the night, or get damaged with daily use if not cared for properly. At Glucody, we offer practical solutions for that:
- Protective covers for the Freestyle reader.
- Adhesive patches to better secure the sensor.
- Sports armbands for greater security.
- Stickers to personalize sensors and pumps.
- Glucose tablets to always carry with you.
These products not only extend the lifespan of your device, but also make your daily life more comfortable, safe, and personalized.
Remember that if you already have a Freestyle Libre sensor, or are about to get one, you can buy the cover for the Freestyle sensor in our online store and receive it at home in a few days. With it, you can protect it from sweat, friction, and water.
Improve your day-to-day with Glucody
At Glucody, we know how important it is to feel safe and comfortable with your glucose monitoring device. That's why we offer products designed for real people living with diabetes who don't want technical limits to condition their lifestyle.
Do you already have your glucose meter? Are you about to receive a Freestyle Libre? Don't forget to buy a cover for the Freestyle sensor.
- Protect your sensor
- It allows you to carry it with comfort and style
- You can customize it however you want
Contact us and we'll help you choose what best suits you.