Insulin Pump

What is an insulin pump?

An insulin pump is a device that pumps insulin continuously through plastic tubing attached to a needle under the skin near the abdomen. The pump is small enough to be worn on a belt or in a pocket.

Will insurance cover an insulin pump?

The US Health Care Financing Administration (HCFA) announced in 1999 that Medicare would cover the cost of insulin pumps for persons with type 1 diabetes. HCFA is the federal agency that administers the Medicare, Medicaid, and Child Health Insurance Programs. Always check with your insurance company to determine if insulin injection devices and supplies are covered under your plan.

How is insulin administered?

Insulin has to enter the body's bloodstream to be effective. This is accomplished through injections into the fat layer - usually in the arm, thigh, or abdomen. Different sites on the body allow the insulin to enter at different rates. Insulin injected into the abdominal wall works the fastest, whereas injection into the thigh works the slowest. Insulin must be administered to the body via an injection and cannot be taken by mouth because it is destroyed in the stomach during digestion.

The timing of insulin injections is very important. Insulin usually needs to be administered before mealtimes - before sugar from a meal starts to enter the bloodstream. Always consult your physician concerning your individual insulin treatment, including injection sites, dosage, frequency, and specific times of administration.

What are the different types of insulin injection devices?

There are many types of insulin injection devices available. Some examples of devices include:

syringe
The syringe is the most common device used to administer insulin. The needle of the syringe is placed under the skin, and the insulin is injected.
insulin pen
Often used for multiple, daily doses of insulin, the insulin pen holds a cartridge with insulin. The pen, which looks like a writing pen, has a small needle at the tip. A dial on the pen allows the user to set the appropriate dosage. A plunger on the other end of the pen is used to actually deliver or inject the insulin.
insulin jet injector
An insulin jet injector looks like a large pen. The injector uses a mechanism to produce high-pressure air to "spray" the insulin through the skin. Insulin jet injectors may be an option for people who do not tolerate needles.
external insulin pump
An insulin pump is a device that pumps insulin continuously through plastic tubing attached to a needle under the skin near the abdomen. The pump is small enough to be worn on a belt or in a pocket.

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The content provided here is for informational purposes only, and was not designed to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease, or replace the professional medical advice you receive from your physician. Please consult your physician with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition.

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