A brand of glucose meter that has all these features and many more is the On Call® Glucose Monitoring System. The On Call brand of glucose meters’ are portable, easy to use and gives you an accurate result within few seconds. In this Review of On Call Glucose Meters, we will be comparing On Call Express, On Call Vivid, On Call Vivid Pal, Extra and Extra Mobile Glucose Monitors, to share with you our user experience on them.

Our analysis draws from both my professional expertise and personal user-level experience, providing you with a holistic perspective on these devices.

Before jumping into the review, firstly let’s cover some background about diabetes and the importance of blood glucose monitoring.

What is Blood Glucose?

Glucose is a simple sugar derived from the carbohydrate, it supplies the body the energy it needs for physical and mental activities. It is the main sugar present in the blood and is known as ‘blood sugar’ or blood glucose.

Having enough energy from blood glucose is important. Still, one has to be careful and ensure that a healthy level of blood sugar is maintained to prevent an abnormally high level of blood sugar and ketones build up in the blood.

What is Blood Ketone?

Ketones are byproduct which results from the body using fat for energy instead of glucose, and this usually occurs when the body is low on glucose, or if you are diabetic and low on Insulin and your cells cannot absorb glucose. The abnormal or unhealthy blood sugar level is either a blood sugar level that is very high (hyperglycemia) or very low (hypoglycemia).

Importance of Keeping a Record of Blood Glucose and Ketone Levels for Diabetics

Unhealthy blood sugar level and high ketone-build up can result in serious health consequence. To prevent high or low blood sugar levels, and also a high level of ketones in the blood it is advisable to check your blood sugar level daily. Keeping an up to date record of blood glucose result will help you to observe the trend in your blood sugar level and how your daily activities and meal affect your sugar level.

Why You Need a Blood Glucose Meter?

To check the blood sugar level daily, one needs to have access to a blood glucose meter. For that, you need to have your own personal glucose meter, so you don’t have to share your lancing device and device with other people. This is to reduce the risks of spreading on contacting disease or illnesses such as HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C.

It is also important that the glucometer should be portable for easy carriage so that you can take it along when going out or traveling so that you can carry out the test whenever you want to.

Also, an ideal meter should be simple and easy to use and most importantly, it should give you an accurate result.

Tip: Remember, checking blood glucose and ketone level only wouldn’t suffice. You should check A1c Levels a few times a year too.

Why You May Need to Monitor Your Blood Glucose Daily?

It is very important to monitoring and keep track of your blood glucose because it helps you to understand how different foods, medications, and activities affect your blood sugar level. That is a major strategy of keeping your diabetes under control.

As noted, a household glucose meter, also known as a glucometer, is one of the key tools you can use to test in the comfort of your house and keep track of your blood glucose level.

If you are a diabetic patient on insulin, and if you have difficulty keeping your blood glucose level under control, if you are pregnant, if you have issues with ketone levels or if you have low blood glucose level, then you must monitor your blood glucose level a few times daily. This is to help you to manage unhealthy blood sugar levels (I.e. very high or very low blood sugar level) and high ketone build-up that can result in serious health consequence and medical emergencies.

High blood sugar level can result in long term complications like

Low blood sugar levels can also result in

The increase in the number of ketones in your blood can make your blood acidic and result in a condition known as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). The most serious effects of DKA include:

  • swelling in your brain
  • diabetic coma
  • a loss of consciousness, and
  • death

So, monitoring your blood sugar level will help you to know when to see your doctor for timely treatment and advice on the type of food, drugs, exercise and activities to avoid or partake in.

Now let’s look into On Call System for measuring your blood glucose levels for home use.

1. On Call GK Dual Blood Glucose and Ketone Monitoring System Review

The On Call brand is one of the family brands of Acon Laboratories. This brand manufactures high-quality glucose monitoring systems that are affordable and designed carefully to give an accurate and reliable result.

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It is designed for personal use for monitoring any change in glucose level or any increase in the level of ketone in the blood, so it should not be shared within multiple users. It uses advanced hematocrit auto-correction technology (patented by ACON) which reduces hematocrit interference to improve the accuracy of the blood glucose concentration.

It uses the same strip to give ‘hypo’, ‘hyper’ and ketone warnings to alert the users to take necessary precaution to prevent a situation like diabetic ketoacidosis and hospitalization.

The On Call glucose meter uses an electrochemical enzymatic system to detect the level of glucose in fresh capillary whole blood and aside from the fingertips. That means this meter allows the user to use blood samples from the finger, arms and palms as alternate testing sites when the blood glucose level is steady or not changing rapidly.

On Call Glucometer Features

The On Call glucometer is designed to be portable, it can fit into your pocket. It is also lightweight for easy carriage so that one can check his or her blood glucose anywhere you are.

The meter operates on batteries that last for several days or months, so you don’t need to worry about charging it if you are in a place without electricity. They are simple and easy to use and gives you a quick result.

On Call glucometer manual gives you the detail of each feature of the device.

FeatureDetails
Hematocrit Range30-55%
Glucose Test Range1.1 – 33.3 mmol/L (20 – 600 mg/dL)
Operating Temperature Range5 – 45°C (41 – 113°F)
Operating Humidity Range20 – 90%
Memory StorageUp to 300 results with date and time
Averages7, 14, or 30 days reading
Special FeatureHematocrit auto-correction technology for accuracy
Features of On Call GK Dual

The Content of On Call Blood Glucose Device Starter Pack

What’s in the Box?

On Call blood glucose monitors which may include the following.

  • Sugar monitor device
  • Free strips and free lancets – for initial uses, which may also be bought later separately.
  • User manual written in English and Spanish – it describes how to use and operate the meter, and how to set the meter if you are using it for the first time.
  • Warranty card
  • Durable carrying case – the case makes it easier for you to take your meter along with you when going out safely.

Components

1. Blood Glucose Meter Device

As you know, the meter reads the test strips and displays the result of the blood glucose level.

2. Test Strips

Strips with a chemical reagent system used with the meter to measure glucose concentration in the blood sample.

3. Lancing Device

The device is used together with sterile lancets to prick the test sites to get the blood sample for the test. The lancing device has different depth settings which allow the user to adjust the depth of the puncture and minimize pain. It can also eject the lancets after usage.

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4. Clear Cap

Used with the lancing device and sterile lancet to obtain a blood sample from the palm and forearm.

5. Sterile Lancets

The cap used together with the lancing device; they are inserted into the lancing device for pricking the test site to get a blood sample after which they are discarded.

6. Control Solution

This helps to verify if the blood glucose meter is working properly as it should be using a pre-calibrated control solution to check the test strips and meter.

Most times you need only Control Solution 1 but If you want to carry out additional levels of tests, Control Solution 0 and Control Solution 2 are also available.

Control Solution 0, Control 1 and Control 2 are available in the On Call Vivid Glucose Control Solution package and are sold separately.

7. Carrying Case

The case makes it easier to carry the meter for blood glucose testing anywhere you go.

8. User’s Manual

The manual gives detailed information on how to use the blood glucose meter.

9. Quick Reference Guide

This gives a summary of the blood glucose meter and procedures for the tests. This guide can be kept in your carrying case for reference purpose.

10. Warranty Card

This should be completed and returned or mailed back to the distributor to register the purchase which will to qualify the buyer for a 5-year meter warranty.

You need to complete the warranty card that came with the meter and return or mail it to your local distributor to register your purchase. So, in a case whereby the meter fails to work for any reason aside from abuse, it can be replaced with a new one.

On Call Glucometer Capabilities

On call glucose meters’ are accurate, safe, simple and easy to use. With a tiny drop of blood sample of about 1ul, you will get the result within 10 seconds.

The Hematocrit Range of the meters’ is between 30-55%, Glucose Test Range 1.1 – 33.3 mmol/L (20 – 600 mg/dL) with the Operating Temperature Range of 5 – 45 oC , Operating Humidity Range of 20 – 90, and the Memory Storage stores up to 300 results with date and time. It also gives you the average of 7, 14 or 30 days reading.

How to Use On Call Blood Test Devices

The On Call meters’ are easy to use so you don’t need any professional meters’, all you need is your user manual. To use the meter, all you have to do is;

  • Put batteries in the device, then turn on the meter and insert your strip
  • Take out lancets and fix it in the lancing device. Set the depth and then puncture your finger to get the blood sample.
  • Drop your blood sample on the strip to read your blood glucose level.

Pros of On Call Glucometer

  • Offers a 5 years 100% warranty in case if the product is faulty or fails to work for any reason other than abuse, the meter can be replaced with a new one.
  • The meters’ starter pack comes with some testing materials.

Cons of On Call Glucometer

  • The warranty does not cover the batteries

Now let’s review the three leading models of On Call Glucose Meters.

The On Call glucose meters’ have many products, but we will be reviewing only 3 of their most popular which are On Call Express, On Call Vivid and On Call Vivid Pall.

User Experience

Having personally used by many of our clients and patients, the On Call GK Dual, we found its accuracy and versatility to be indispensable in managing my diabetes. The peace of mind it provides, coupled with its user-friendly design, makes it a standout choice.

Tip: Are you interested in smart Bluetooth connecting blood glucose monitors? Then One Drop and Dario Glucose Monitors would be better options.

2. On Call Express Glucose Meter

This glucometer referred to as a Blood Glucose Monitoring System, is carefully designed with advanced biosensor technology which is proven to be accurate clinically with a user-friendly design for easier diabetes management that fast and reliable.

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This glucose meter has a large display with bold numbers and a test strip ejector.

Blood glucose monitoring system has 5 test reminders’ daily and Hypo, hyper, and ketone alarms. It also keeps up to 300 test records with date and time.

This meter data management is compatible with the On Call Anywhere Diabetes Manager and the On Call AppLink Bluetooth Adapter.

On Call Express meter does not require any Coding, but a tiny 0.4 micro-liter sample size which makes it less painful and gives you result in 4 seconds.

For easier testing and to reduce strip wastage, it includes audible fill detection offers a second chance drop. Each On Call Express test strip comes with auto code calibration circuitry which means there is no need to code your meter manually and the test strips are FSA Eligible Product.

Features of On Call Express

  • Auto Shutoff

The meter shuts off automatically 2 minutes after testing or 5 seconds after removing the strip.

  • Audible fill detection and a chance to apply a second drop of blood within 3 second which minimizes the wastage of strips.
  • It gives 7-, 14-, 30-, 60-, and 90-days averages.
  • It stores up to 300 test memory.
  • Alternate Site Testing

The test sample can be collected from a fingertip, palm or forearm.

FeatureDetails
Test Time4 seconds
Blood Sample Size0.4 µL
Data StorageUp to 300 test records with date and time
CompatibilityOn Call Anywhere Diabetes Manager, Bluetooth Adapter
Unique FeatureAudible fill detection and second-chance drop
Features of On Call Express

What’s in the Box?

The glucose meter comes with:

  • 1 On Call Express Blood Glucose Meter
  • 1 pre-installed CR2032 battery
  • 10 On Call Express Test Strips
  • On Call Stealth Lancing Device with alternate site testing cap
  • 10 On Call Sterile Lancets (30G)
  • 2mL of On Call Express Control Solution
  • 1 carrying case
  • 1 logbook
  • 1 user’s manual and quick start guide (written in English and Spanish)

Pros of On Call Express

  • Has automatic shutoff function to preserve battery
  • Provides fast and accurate test results
  • Stores more than just test results

Cons of On Call Express

  • The box/kit doesn’t come with enough testing materials.

User Experience

Incorporating the On Call Express into the routine has significantly improved the testing experience of our clients and patients. Its compact size and quick results make it ideal for on-the-go monitoring.

Tip: Heard about Precision Xtra Blood Glucose & Ketone Monitoring System? We had mixed feelings about its value for money.

3. On Call Vivid Glucose Meter

This is a high technology glucometer that offers 100% accurate value for the whole range of glucose measurements which gives the user 100% confidence with glucose self-management. These glucometer uses glucose oxidase (GOD) enzyme technology to give fast and reliable results.

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The GOD Enzymes is safe and glucose specific, so other sugars like maltose, galactose and xylose do not interfere with the result.

It also uses advanced hematocrit auto-correction technology to minimizes hematocrit interference and improve the accuracy of the glucose value. This meter test blood with very high (70%) and very low (20%) hematocrit levels, including anemic blood and neonatal blood.

The On Call Vivid meter do not require any manual coding and is easy to use. It allows for second blood sample redosing within 3 seconds.

It is designed with a backlight and a strip port light, so one can easily carry out the test even when it is dark. It uses only 0.8 µL of blood to give result in 5 seconds. It shows the result values in mg/dl (milligrams of glucose per deciliter).

With a temperature range of 5 – 45 ºC, it means that it works in most environments. For better management, the device test memory shows the date and time for each test result. The devices also make it easy to observe the changes in glucose level by giving the average sugar level for a period of 7, 14, 30, 60, and 90 days.

It also comes with meal markers to check the blood glucose levels before and meals.

On Call Vivid glucometer is certified with ISO 15197: 2013.

The data management for On Call Vivid Blood Glucose meter is compatible with the On Call AppLink Bluetooth Adapter and the On Call Anywhere Diabetes Manager.

Features of On Call Vivid

FeatureDetails
Display Size37 mm x 33.5 mm
EnzymeGlucose Oxidase
Alternate Testing SitesFingertip, forearm, or palm
Special FeatureBefore and after meal markers
Features of On Call Vivid
  • A Large display with bold numbers
  • Uses GOD enzyme technology that doesn’t react to Maltose, or Galactose with hematocrit auto-correction technology to enhance the accuracy of the result.
  • Tests both neonatal and blood capillary.
  • It allows for second blood sample re-dosing within 3 seconds with audible fill detection to reduce strip wastage.
  • Strip and Lancet ejectors for easy disposal.
  • Auto code calibration circuitry in every strip.
  • Code chip allows for automatic calibration.
  • The battery life lasts up to 3,000 tests.
  • The test memory stores up to 500 test results with the date and time.
  • Backlight and strip port light for illumination when carrying out the test in a place with low light.
  • Easy to download on PC using a USB cable
  • Gives 7-, 14-, 30-, 60-, and 90-day averages which allow the user to quickly access any change in blood glucose levels
  • Includes before and after Meal markers to monitor before and after meals results.
  • Hypo, hyper, and ketone alarms to alert the user on when to take necessary action.
  • Comes with up to 5 Daily test reminders’
  • The result is accurate and complies with ISO15197-2015
  • Requires only 0.8 μL blood sample to give an accurate result in seconds.

What’s in the Box?

The On Call Vivid pack comes with the following.

  • 1 On Call Vivid Glucose Meter
  • 10 On Call Vivid Test strips
  • 10 Lancets
  • 1 Lancing Device
  • 2x Batteries (CR 2032 3,0V)
  • A Carrying pouch
  • A User Manual

Pros of On Call Vivid

  • You can test your blood glucose level even in a place with low to no light.

Cons of On Call Vivid

  • The testing materials that come with the pack are not enough so the need for repurchase is not far away.

User Experience

The On Call Vivid’s incorporation of meal markers revolutionized our approach to monitoring. Its accuracy and user-friendly design make it an indispensable tool in managing diabetes effectively.

Tip: Dario is one of the Top 10 Best Glucose Meters of the year.

4. On Call Vivid Pal Glucose Meter

This is a small and portable blood glucose meter that uses Hematocrit auto-correction technology ensures that the blood glucose test result is accurate.

On Call Vivid Pal

The On Call Vivid Pal glucose meter do not require any coding and gives an accurate result within 5 seconds from 0.8 drops of a blood sample.

It has a large display size for easy reading with up to 5 customizable test reminders’. It stores up to 500 test results with dates and time in its memory with the average result for 7, 14, 30, 60 and 90 days to help one track the change in glucose level.

It allows for second blood sample redosing within 3 seconds if the initial sample is insufficient.

This meter has a smart and powerful data management that is compatible with the On Call Anywhere Diabetes Manager and the On Call AppLink Bluetooth Adapter. The meter can be connected to the PC with On Call Diabetes Management Software for better data analysis.

Features of On Call Vivid Pal

FeatureDetails
Blood Sample Size0.8 µL
Averaging Options7, 14, and 30-day averages
Alternate Testing SitesFingertip, forearm, or palm
Special FeatureHematocrit auto-correction technology for accuracy
Features of On Call Vivid Pal
  • It is a mini meter with a large display screen
  • Gives result within 5 seconds, which is fast, and the results are reliable.
  • Has the option for alternate sites for taking the blood sample aside from the finger which is the forearm and the palm.
  • Uses hematocrit auto-correction technology to enhance the accuracy of the test results.
  • Has an option for up to 5 test reminders with hypo, hyper and ketone alarms.
  • Has an option for second blood sample redosing within 3 seconds after initial application.
  • Design with an easy strip ejector for easy disposal of the strip after usage.
  • To monitor before and after-meal glucose level, the On Call Vivid Pall includes before and after-meal markers.
  • Its strips are designed with Auto code calibration circuitry, so there is no need to code the meter manually.
  • Audible fill detection reduces wasted strips.

Pros of On Call Vivid Pal

  • • the size is small and portable, which makes it perfect for the diabetic patients who are active to carry around easily.

Cons of On Call Vivid Pal

  • You need to get more testing materials since the ones that came with the starters pack wouldn’t last for long.

Now let’s compare the three best meters’ of On Call to guide you to select the best for your needs.

Our Experience

The portability of the On Call Vivid Pal, coupled with its accuracy, makes it a valuable addition to our client’s diabetes management toolkit.

Tip: Here’s our view on A1c Testing.

5. On Call Extra Glucose Meter

The On Call® Extra Glucose Meter stands as a testament to technological innovation and user-centric design. In this section, we delve into the features and advantages of the On Call Extra, shedding light on how it elevates the experience of monitoring blood glucose levels.

Let’s explore some key features that set the On Call Extra apart:

Rapid Testing and Small Sample Size

The On Call Extra Glucose Meter boasts an impressively quick testing time, providing results in a matter of seconds. This is particularly advantageous for individuals with busy lifestyles, allowing them to seamlessly incorporate monitoring into their routines. Additionally, the device requires only a small blood sample, minimizing discomfort during testing.

Data Management and Connectivity

Modern diabetes management often involves more than just taking readings. The On Call Extra supports this by offering comprehensive data management capabilities. Users can store and review their test results, identifying trends and patterns that can inform adjustments to their treatment plans. Moreover, the meter’s connectivity features allow data to be easily shared with healthcare professionals for remote monitoring and guidance.

6. On Call Extra Mobile Glucose Meter

The benefits of the On Call Extra extend beyond individual users. Healthcare professionals play a crucial role in guiding patients through their diabetes management journey. The On Call Extra Mobile version is tailored to meet the needs of healthcare practitioners, enhancing their ability to provide personalized care:

Streamlined Patient Management

The On Call Extra Mobile equips healthcare professionals with a valuable tool for managing a multitude of patients efficiently. With the capacity to store up to 2,000 patient records, this version of the meter simplifies the process of keeping track of individual profiles, treatments, and progress over time.

Point-of-Care Testing

In healthcare settings, immediate access to accurate information is essential. The On Call Extra Mobile enables healthcare professionals to conduct point-of-care testing, obtaining real-time results that inform critical decisions. This feature is particularly useful for hospital settings, clinics, and outreach programs where quick insights can lead to timely interventions.

The Difference of On Call Express vs. Vivid vs. Vivid Pal vs Extra

Although these 3 models of On Call meters’ have some similar features, they also differ in some aspects.

  • Size

These 3 meters’ have different sizes, with On Call Vivid as the biggest size which is 89.6 x 58 x 21.7 mm, followed by the On Call Express with 85 x 40 x 16.4 mm and On Call Vivid Pall as the smallest with 75 x 40 x 13mm as the meter size.

  • Display size

But, when it comes to the display size, the On Call Vivid Pall has the largest display size of 50 x 25mm, followed by the On Call Vivid with 37 x 33.5mm display size, then the On Call Express with 35 x 32mm display size.

  • Blood sample size requirements for testing

The minimum sample size and test time also differ with 0.4 µL sample size and 4 seconds test time for On Call Express, while On Call Vivid and On Call Vivid Pal have the same minimum sample size of 0.8 µL and the same test time of 5 seconds.

  • Storage memory

The storage memory for On Call Express is 300 test results with date and time while that of On Call Vivid and On Call Vivid Pall is 500 results with date and time.

  • Hematocrit range

The hematocrit range for the On Call Express is 25 – 65% and 20 – 70% for On Call Vivid and On Call Vivid Pall.

  • Other

These 3 glucose meters’ use glucose oxidase, they all have the measurement range of 20 – 600 mg/dL, with battery life for 1000 tests, automatically shuts off 2 minutes after the test or 5 seconds after the removal of the strip.

They all have the same operating temperature of 41-113˚F (5-45 ˚C), with operating relative humidity of 10-90% (non-condensing) and the palm and forearm as the alternate testing sites.

Here’s everything in a summary table.

FeaturesOn Call ExpressOn Call VividOn Call Vivid PallOn Call Extra
Meter Size85 x 40 x 16.4 mm89.6 x 58 x 21.7 mm75 x 40 x 13mmCompact and portable
Display Size35 mm x 32 mm37 mm x 33.5 mm50 x 25 mmLarge, easy-to-read display
EnzymeGlucose OxidaseGlucose Oxidase
Measurement Range20-600 mg/dL20-600 mg/dL20-600 mg/dL
Minimum Sample Size0.4 µL.0.8 µL.0.8 µL0.5 µL
Test Time4 seconds5 seconds5 secondsQuick results in seconds
Result CalibrationPlasma-equivalentPlasma-equivalent
Battery Life1,000 tests1000 testsUp to 1,000 tests
MemoryUp to 300 records with date and timeUp to 500 records with date and timeUp to 500 records with date and timeStores up to 300 test records
Operating Temperature41-113˚F (5-45 ˚C)41-113˚F (5-45˚C)
Operating Relative Humidity10-90% (non-condensing)10-90% (non-condensing)
Hematocrit Range25 – 60%20 – 70%20 – 70%20-70%
Automatic Shutoff2 minutes after last action or 5 sec after strip removal2 minutes after last action or 5 seconds after strip removal
Alternate Site TestingFingertip, forearm, or palmFingertip, forearm, or palm
The Comparision

Other On Call Meters

Other On Call Meters are On Call Extra Voice Blood Glucose Meter, On Call Sure Blood Glucose Meter, On Call Advanced Blood Glucose Meter, On Call Plus Blood Glucose Meter, On Call Platinum Blood Glucose Meter and On Call Simple Blood Glucose Meter.

A Holistic Approach to Diabetes Management

Incorporating an On Call glucometer into your diabetes management plan can be a game-changer. Beyond accurate readings, these devices offer insights that empower you to make informed decisions. Whether you’re tracking your blood glucose levels, monitoring ketones, or analyzing trends, the On Call series equips you with the tools you need for effective management.

The On Call glucometers have seamlessly integrated into many of our client’s and patient’s routines, enhancing their understanding of the body’s responses and enabling them to lead a healthier life.

Conclusion

Self-monitoring of blood glucose level is an essential part of managing diabetes. That helps you to live a longer and healthier life.

ACON Laboratories have made this possible by producing the On Call meters’, which are high-quality glucose monitoring systems at an affordable price so that you can test your blood glucose and ketone level often and when necessary. Together, you can better manage your diabetes.

With only a few simple steps, a little drop of a blood sample which means you will experience little or no pain when pricking your finger to get the blood sample. And, within a few seconds, the On Call glucose meters’ will give you accurate blood glucose level results.

Tip: Here are the best blood glucose meters’ of the year.