Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) with mass concentration measurement
This test measures the average level of hemoglobin A1c in your blood over the past 2–3 months, reflecting your blood sugar (glucose) control during that time.
["HbA1c helps doctors track long-term diabetes management and adjust treatment plans."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 30313-1
- Short code
- Hgb BldA-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Hgb BldA-mCnc
- Category
- hematology
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 12
- Ref high
- 17.5
- Critical range
- 7 N/A – 20 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85018
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003004
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is HbA1c Used For?
HbA1c is primarily used to diagnose diabetes, monitor long-term blood sugar levels, and assess how well diabetes treatments are working. It’s a key indicator of whether your blood sugar stays within healthy ranges over time.
How Is HbA1c Different from Daily Blood Sugar Checks?
Unlike daily blood sugar tests (like fingerstick glucose checks), HbA1c gives a broader picture by averaging your glucose levels over months. It’s less affected by short-term fluctuations and provides a more stable measure of overall control.
Why Might HbA1c Be Ordered?
Your doctor may order HbA1c if you have diabetes, prediabetes, or if you’re at risk for diabetes. It’s also used during pregnancy (gestational diabetes), before starting certain medications, or to evaluate chronic health conditions like kidney disease or heart disease.
What Does an HbA1c Result Mean?
Results are typically reported as a percentage. A higher percentage suggests poorer blood sugar control, while a lower percentage indicates better control. However, exact meanings depend on your overall health and treatment goals, which your doctor will discuss with you.
Reference range
Adult males: 13.5-17.5 g/dL; Females: 12.0-16.0 g/dLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: HbA1c in Diabetes Management
Short name
HbA1c
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get an HbA1c test?
What if my HbA1c is higher than expected?
Can HbA1c be affected by other health conditions?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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