An HbA_1c level of <7% is recommended by most guidelines. However, it must be understood that treatment needs to be individualized according to each patient after giving due consideration to individual patient characteristics and needs. Patients with end-stage renal disease who are undergoing dialysis can have an HbA_1c of 6-8%. Older patients or those with complications, long duration of diabetes and high risk of hypoglycemia can have an HbA_1c of >7%.