How to Use Diabetic Test Strips to Monitor Your Blood Sugar Levels
Diabetes test strips are in high demand, especially unused strips that are unexpired and in their original packaging. With the rising costs of healthcare, many diabetics struggle to afford the supplies they need.
This creates an opportunity for individuals to sell extra test strips and make some money. There are legalities involved in reselling medical devices that you must understand. This article provides clear guidance on how to legally sell diabetic test strips for cash.
Understanding Diabetic Test Strips
Diabetic test strips are small, disposable plastic strips covered in chemicals that react with blood to measure glucose levels. They allow people with diabetes to test their blood sugar multiple times per day to stay on top of glycemic control. Unused strips typically expire within 12-24 months.
With the high cost of test strips (over $1 per strip), many diabetics have leftover, unexpired boxes that they no longer need. This creates an opportunity for others to purchase them at a discounted price while still ensuring they are safe to use. There is a legitimate secondary market for these strips, benefiting both buyers and sellers.
Legal Concerns
Selling stolen medical supplies, including diabetic test strips, is strictly prohibited by law. Stolen test strips may find their way to the secondary market through acts such as theft, fraud, or deception. Trafficking in stolen goods contributes to rising costs for consumers. It also harms manufacturers and distributors. Those who knowingly sell stolen test strips can face charges of trafficking in stolen property or receiving stolen goods, among other legal consequences. The safest approach is to only resell strips you have legally acquired and own.
Perhaps the biggest legal grey area is reselling prescription-labeled test strips. While legally prescribed to one individual, selling these labeled medical items to another buyer constitutes distribution of a prescription device without proper licensing. The original prescription was assigned to the original buyer, not the third-party reseller. Some states have stronger regulations than others around prescription medical sales between unlicensed parties. For example, the state of Florida prohibits the resale of prescription-labeled medical goods from one person to another without appropriate licensing. Check your specific state laws to ensure you are not violating restrictions on prescription medical sales.
The prohibition on selling expired test strips is universal. It is dangerous and unethical to sell medical supplies that are expired, because they are deemed ineffective and potentially inaccurate. For example, test strips can become faulty when expired, leading to inaccurate blood sugar readings. Inaccurate readings can lead to improper diabetes management and health risks. Expired medical supplies also often cannot be resold to wholesalers or medical facilities, even though unused. Always check strip expiration dates carefully and do not attempt to resell anything expired, regardless of what a buyer may claim.
In addition to expired and stolen test strips, also avoid selling boxes that are damaged, opened, or tampered with. Even if the strips themselves appear fine, broken seals or opened boxes raise concerns about storage, handling, and exposure to elements like heat or moisture. Many secondary buyers will not purchase anything that isn’t in the original intact packaging. It’s also unethical and dangerous to knowingly resell potentially compromised medical supplies. Stick to factory-sealed, undamaged boxes only.
Ultimately, the safest approach legally and ethically is to only resell unused, unexpired, unopened test strip boxes that do not contain prescription labels. This minimizes the chances of breaking any state or federal laws related to the unauthorized sale or distribution of medical devices. When in doubt, do diligent research into your state laws or consult with a legal professional. Make an educated decision before risking legal trouble or endangering consumers.
Steps to Sell Diabetic Test Strips Legally
Follow these recommended steps for selling strips legally and ethically:
Ensure the Strips Are Not Expired
Carefully check the expiration date on the box and each vial of strips. Selling expired medical supplies could put the buyer at risk.
Verify the Boxes Are Unopened and Undamaged
Inspect the packaging to ensure it is factory-sealed and not damaged. This guarantees quality and consistency.
Remove Any Prescription Labels
If the boxes have a pharmacy label with a prescription name on them, remove the label using proper techniques to avoid damaging the packaging. This protects patient privacy and prevents potential legal violations.
Find a Reputable Buyer
Research potential buyers and read reviews from past sellers. Ensure the buyer is a licensed distributor with all necessary credentials. This avoids getting involved with unscrupulous or unqualified buyers.
Agree on a Fair Price and Payment Method
Research current market rates for the brand and quantity of test strips you plan to sell. Be wary of offers that seem too good to be true. Payment by check from a verified company is safest.
Best Practices for Shipping
Use a sturdy box and bubble wrap to prevent damage during transit. Consider insuring packages and using a trackable shipping method so you can confirm delivery. Keep records of each transaction.
The Benefits of Legally Reselling Test Strips
The most obvious benefit is extra income. The current market price for unexpired test strips is often 25-50% less than retail, but still extremely lucrative. Beyond financial incentives, reselling unused diabetic supplies prevents waste and helps provide affordable testing options to others in need.
Avoid Potential Pitfalls
To maximize the benefits and avoid risks when selling test strips:
- Research buyers carefully to avoid scams.
- Never sell damaged, expired, or improperly stored strips.
- Follow all applicable laws if selling large quantities of strips regularly.
Legally Selling Diabetic Test Strips
Selling unused diabetic test strips can be a smart way to earn extra money, but you must take steps to ensure it is done legally, safely, and ethically. With a bit of diligence and common sense, you can help reduce medical waste while providing an important product to buyers in need.
About American Medical Surplus
American Medical Surplus is a trusted buyer and distributor of unused diabetic testing supplies. We provide hassle-free transactions and fair market value pricing to customers nationwide.
Our fully licensed team follows all medical surplus laws and guidelines to ensure the highest standards of quality and safety. Sell your excess diabetic testing supplies legally and securely by contacting us today.
If you have unneeded diabetic test strips, visit American Medical Surplus today to get a free quote and turn those unused supplies into cash.
