Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico | Blue for Your Health | Summer 2021

bcbsnm.com/community-centennial 9 D I AB E T E S All about your A1C The A1C test—also known as the hemoglobin A1C or HbA1c test—is a simple blood test that measures your average blood sugar levels over the past three months. It’s one of the commonly used tests to diagnose prediabetes and diabetes and is also the main test to help you and your health care team manage your diabetes. Higher A1C levels are linked to diabetic health problems, so reaching and maintaining your individual A1C goal is really important if you have diabetes. Who should get an A1C test, and when? Managing diabetes. If you have diabetes, get an A1C test at least twice a year, and more often if your medicine changes or if you have other health conditions. Talk to your health care provider about how often is right for you. Testing for diabetes or prediabetes. Get a baseline A1C test if you’re an adult over age 45—or if you’re under 45, are overweight, and have one or more risk factors for prediabetes or type 2 diabetes: ■ If your result is normal but you’re over 45, have risk factors, or have ever had gestational diabetes, repeat the A1C test every three years. ■ If your result shows you have prediabetes, talk to your health care provider about taking steps now to improve your health and lower your risk for type 2 diabetes. Repeat the A1C test as often as your health care provider recommends, usually every one to two years. ■ If your test shows you have diabetes, ask your doctor to refer you to diabetes self-management education and support services so you can have the best start in managing your diabetes. Your A1C goal The goal for most people with diabetes is 7% or less. However, your personal goal will depend on many things, such as your age and any other medical conditions. Work with your health care provider to set your own individual A1C goal. This information should not be considered complete and should not take the place of a provider visit; seek advice from your health care provider or from your diabetes educator. Call and schedule your visit today. Source: www.cdc.gov/diabetes/managing/managing-blood -sugar/a1c.html Take action Schedule an appointment with a provider who is in the Blue Cross Community Centennial network. If you need help locating a provider, please contact Blue Cross Community Centennial Member Services at 866-689-1523 (TTY: 711 ). If you need a ride to your provider ap- pointment, call ModivCare ® (at least three working days before your visit) at 866-913-4342 (TTY: 866-288-3133 ). Centennial Rewards are available. To learn more, visit centennialrewards.com or call 877-806-8964 (TTY: 844-488-9722 ).