Pursuant to the 2016 American Diabetes Association recommendations for using HBA1c to diagnose and monitor diabetes using a NGSP certified method and standardized to the DCCT assay, the Clinical Laboratory use this reference range for HBA1c. 

Notes:

• Current recommendations do not apply to pregnant women or children
• To confirm a positive result, the test must be repeated on a different day
• For diagnosis, A1c test should be performed in a laboratory not a point of care device
• The A1c test should be performed in a laboratory using a NGSP certified method and standardized to the DCCT assay. Bassett Medical Center laboratory meets this recommendation.
• More information can be found at http://professional.diabetes.org/ResourcesForProfessionals.aspx?cid=84160

In 2016 the ADA adopted the criterion of >/= 6.5% to diagnose diabetes.
An A1C >/= 6.5% In the absence of hyperglycemia, results should be confirmed by repeat testing. Testing is performed in a laboratory using a NGSP certified method and standardized to the DCCT.

Keep in mind that while the ADA recommends HBA1c can be used for diagnosis, Medicare is currently only reimbursing for HBA1c used to monitor diabetes.  Medicare covers the following for screening for diabetes:

• A fasting blood glucose test
            AND
• A post-glucose challenge test (LAB21112); not limited to an oral glucose tolerance test with a glucose challenge of 75 gm non- pregnant adults
            OR
•  A 2-hour post-glucose (LAB169) challenge test alone
•  For those with pre-diabetes, those who are not diabetics or have not previously been diagnosed as pre-diabetics Medicare covers a maximum of two diabetes screening tests within a 12 month period (but not less than 6 months apart)