Low and behold the Bayer ContourUSB Blood Glucose Meter is now finally available in Spain.  I am lucky enough to have one of these and combined with a small stash of contour link strips, I will be using this new meter over the coming months.

The main drive for me is that their software is compatible with both Mac/PC computers.
Why not take a trip to you diabetes clinic, maybe ask to see if you doctor can get hold on a meter for you or you can stump up the €40 at pretty any major chemist.

Further info on the Bayer USB;
http://www.diabetes.bayer.es/index.php – (Español)
http://www.bayerglucofacts.com/ – Software (Español)

In English;
http://www.bayerdiabetes.com/

You will also find a most entertaining review of the Bayer ContourUSB meter via my esteemed blogging acquaintances Shoot Up or Put Up…

The first meter with plug & play diabetes management software. Woohoo!

The problem is that this particular, innovative product will not be available to persons residing in Spain!

Whilst this product may not be suitable for all persons with Diabetes, it can and will be an excellent product for some.

A brief run-down on what we are missing here;

Key Features

Just insert a test strip and plug into a whole new world of diabetes management.

• Integrated AutoLog technology for intuitive meal marking
• Brightly colored display and lighted test strip port – easy to read everywhere and anytime
• Text messages instead of error codes
• Rechargeable battery that can charge from any USB port
• USB connector and integrated diabetes management software from Bayer
• Date and time synchronization with the computer for accurate result tracking
• 2000-test memory

Uses Bayer’s CONTOUR™ technology

• No Coding™ Technology
• Minimises effects of many common interfering substances
• Automatic control solution marking

You can read further about the USB Meter here on the Bayer UK Site.

But why no Spain, I hear you ask? Well at the moment I can not give anyone a answer however I have been in touch with the US Corporate Director to ask why they decided that persons with Diabetes residing in Spain should not have access to what could potentially be a life changing product.

I’m hopeful that an answer will arrive shortly!!

Incidentally, Bayer has a pretty decent presence here in Spain. The USB meter uses existing strips from the contour range and uses the same measurements as the USA (mg/dl).

I would personally like to try out the meter. I am currently using an Accu Chek Aviva Nano and whilst pretty and has nice lights, the meter’s performance is disappointing and I feel I can no longer trust the meter any more. Not a good sign for all parties concerned.

Here’s to hope and some answers from the Bayer HQ.. Bye for now..

A new blood glucose monitor, unveiled today, connects directly to Nintendo DST and Nintendo DST Lite gaming systems and was designed specifically for children with diabetes.

Bayer’s DIDGET™ Blood Glucose Monitoring System

Keeping children actively engaged in their diabetes routine is essential. To help encourage consistent testing habits, Bayer developed the DIDGET™ blood glucose monitoring system. This unique tool rewards children for testing with points they can use with their Nintendo DS™ or Nintendo DS™ Lite system, and on Bayer’s New Web Community your exclusive web community for children with diabetes.

Designed Exclusively for Children

We know that children with diabetes have unique challenges and responsibilities. And parents know that a good way to motivate children to do anything—from homework to household chores to blood glucose testing—is to engage them with something they love to do. That’s why we designed Bayer’s DIDGET™ meter—to give children a fun and effective way to take charge of their diabetes management.

Adds Fun to Routine Testing

Bayer’s DIDGET™ meter rewards consistent testing habits with points that can be used with the exclusive Knock Em Downs™: World’s Fair video game for use with Nintendo DS™ , Nintendo DS™ Lite or on Bayer’s New Web Community. Children earn points for regular daily testing, with additional rewards for being within their target range and sticking with their testing regimen over time. They can use these points to purchase items in the games, unlock mini-games and customize their experience on Bayer’s New Web Community.

Further information is available from the Bayer Website.