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Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) with 24-hour urine collection for Creatinine Clearance

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures your average blood sugar levels over the past 2–3 months and evaluates how well your kidneys are filtering waste from your blood.

Quick summary

["Helps track diabetes management and kidney health in one combined assessment."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
60453-8
Short code
HEDIS 2011 PPC-C ABO+Rh
Synonyms
HEDIS 2011 PPC-C ABO+Rh
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What This Test Measures

The **HbA1c** portion assesses long-term blood sugar control by measuring the percentage of hemoglobin molecules bonded to glucose—a stable indicator of average glucose levels over time. The **creatinine clearance** portion evaluates kidney function by measuring how well your kidneys filter waste (creatinine) from your blood.

Why It Matters for Diabetes Care

HbA1c is critical for diagnosing diabetes, monitoring treatment effectiveness, and preventing complications like nerve damage or heart disease. Creatinine clearance helps detect early kidney issues, which are common in diabetes but often silent until advanced.

How the Test Works

You’ll provide a blood sample (for HbA1c) and a 24-hour urine sample (for creatinine clearance). The urine sample is collected over a full day to measure how much creatinine your kidneys filter, which relates to their overall function.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for HbA1c, but for creatinine clearance, drink plenty of water the day before and throughout your urine collection to ensure accurate results. Avoid excessive protein or salt intake unless advised by your doctor.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

HbA1c + Kidney Function Test

Frequently asked questions

How often should I get this test?
Typically, HbA1c is checked every 3–6 months for people with diabetes. Creatinine clearance may be included in routine kidney function tests, especially if you have diabetes or risk factors for kidney disease.
Can diet or medications affect these results?
Yes. High-protein diets or certain medications (e.g., NSAIDs) can temporarily alter creatinine levels. For HbA1c, sudden changes in blood sugar control (e.g., from illness or medication) may affect the result. Always discuss your medications and recent health changes with your provider.
What if my results are outside the normal range?
If your HbA1c is high, your doctor may adjust insulin, oral medications, or lifestyle strategies. If creatinine clearance is low, they may recommend monitoring kidney health more closely, adjusting medications, or referring you to a nephrologist (kidney specialist). Follow-up tests will help determine next steps.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy