The hemoglobin A1C test is a common test requested by your physician 2 to 4 times a year.

It tells your physician if your diabetes is under control or not

A1C readings reflect the status of your diabetes in the past 3 months

If your A1C value is below 7 % then this means that you have been doing well in managing your diabetes. It is in good control and your medical plan is working for you.

If your A1C is higher than 9 % then your diabetes is uncontrolled, and you need to work with your healthcare team on a new medical plan to bring the A1C down and protect yourself from diabetes complications.

Another way of checking your diabetes control is by calculating your “time in range” or TIR. Physicians believe that If your blood glucose readings are between 70 mg/dl and 180 mg/dl then you are in range.

However, it is best to check with your physician and decide with him/her on blood glucose targets that suit you best.