Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 2, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Point of Care A1c?
A point of care A1c test is usually done by a primary care doctor, a nurse practitioner, or a diabetes educator in an office or clinic. It is a simple finger stick blood test, so it does not need a surgeon.
What it is
A1c stands for hemoglobin A1c, a blood test that shows your average blood sugar level over the past two to three months. Sugar sticks to hemoglobin, a protein inside red blood cells, over time. The result comes as a percentage, and a higher percentage means higher average blood sugar.
Why a doctor might recommend it
A doctor may recommend this test to check for diabetes or prediabetes, or to see how well diabetes is controlled. Because the result is ready in minutes, you and your doctor can make changes to your treatment plan right away.
How to prepare
- You do not need to fast, so you can eat and drink normally before the test.
- Drink water so your fingers are warm, which makes the blood sample easier to get.
- Tell the staff about any medicines or supplements you take, since some conditions like anemia can affect the result.
- Bring a list of your questions so you can talk about the result while it is fresh.
What happens during it
A staff member cleans your fingertip and uses a small lancet to get a drop of blood. The blood goes into a small machine that gives a result in a few minutes. It feels like a quick pinch, and the whole test usually takes less than ten minutes.
Recovery
There is no real recovery needed. You may have a tiny spot of blood or slight soreness on your fingertip, which goes away quickly.
Risks and side effects
This test is very safe. The main risks are minor, such as brief pain, a small bruise, or slight bleeding at the finger stick site.
Who performs it
A doctor, nurse practitioner, physician assistant, nurse, or trained medical assistant can perform the test. Your doctor reviews the result with you and decides what it means for your care.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. Both can handle point of care A1c testing and diabetes follow up in the office, and longer visits allow more time to talk about diet, activity, and medicines.
Common questions
Do I need to fast before an A1c test?
No. You can eat and drink as usual before the test. It measures average blood sugar over months rather than the sugar in your blood at that moment.
How is an A1c test different from daily glucose checks?
A daily glucose check shows your blood sugar right now. The A1c test shows your average over the past two to three months, so it gives a bigger picture.
How often should my A1c be checked?
Many people with diabetes have it checked two to four times a year. The schedule depends on how stable their blood sugar is and what their doctor recommends.
Can anything affect the accuracy of an A1c result?
Certain conditions, such as anemia or recent blood loss, can affect the result. If a result does not match how you are feeling, a doctor may repeat it with a lab test to confirm.
Sources
- MedlinePlus - Hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) Test
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - A1C Test for Diabetes and Prediabetes | Diabetes
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
