Ralphs pharmacies offering free diabetes testing

LOS ANGELES -- Ralphs Grocery Company is offering free blood glucose tests at its 80 in-store pharmacies now through Nov. 20.

Ralphs is offering the free blood glucose tests in partnership with the American Diabetes Association (ADA) and in support of November's National Diabetes Awareness Month.

"Diabetes is a serious health issue and blood glucose testing is an example of how our Ralphs pharmacies are offering accessible health care services that help people live healthier," said Rebecca Cupp, RPh, VP of pharmacy for Ralphs Grocery Company. "We are offering free blood glucose tests so our customers can better understand their numbers and the importance of knowing that they can make informed decisions about their health."

Ralphs pharmacists conduct blood glucose tests with a quick fingerstick. Tests are available to people 18 years and older during pharmacy hours with no appointment necessary. Customers getting a blood glucose test will receive a pharmacist consultation to help better understand results.

Blood glucose testing is just one of many health and wellness services offered by Ralphs Pharmacies. Ralphs Pharmacies offer customers the convenience of having their prescriptions filled while they shop for groceries. Among the other health and wellness services offered are adult and adolescent immunizations for Hepatitis A and B, tetanus, meningitis, cervical cancer, pneumonia, shingles (herpes zoster) and flu; customized medication reviews; memory screenings; smoking cessation; and cholesterol screenings. Free blood pressure readings are also available.

Most Ralphs Pharmacies are open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on weekends. (Check your local Ralphs Pharmacy for hours.)