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Choosing a Pump

Whether you decide an insulin pump is the way you prefer to take insulin or you want to update the one you're currently using, ask yourself these questions before buying:

1. How good is your vision? If your sight is impaired, look for an insulin pump with big numbers or vibration and sound components. The Roche Accu-Chek Spirit allows you to reconfigure the screen when you wear the pump upside down.
2. Are you tech savvy? If you like advanced computer features, you might research pumps that work in combination with an optional continuous glucose monitor.
3. Does size matter to you? Pumps come in different shapes and sizes. The pump will always be with you, so you need to be comfortable with it.
4. Do you want the color to match your wardrobe? It may sound vain, but your pump will be a permanent accessory.
5. How tough is tough enough? Is the pump durable enough for your level and degree of physical activity? If needed, look for one that's waterproof (not splash resistant) and hardy (has survived high drop tests and static discharge).
6. Which pumps will your health plan cover? Insulin pumps are covered under Medicare, many private insurance plans, and group health-care plans, usually under the durable medical equipment provision. Most insulin pump companies help you and your health-care provider complete the paperwork to order a pump, such as a reimbursement-assistance center that works with your insurance company to determine your eligibility and specific coverage.
7. How much insulin will the pump hold? Your total daily dose will determine how often you need to change or fill the reservoir. Most pumps hold 200 to 300 units of rapid-acting insulin, which should last for about 3 days.
8. What's the smallest dosing increment? This is mainly important for small children because their dosing needs are lower than those of adults. The Animas 2020 delivers the lowest basal rate available, as low as 0.025 unit per hour.
9. How helpful is customer support? Test a pump company's customer support by calling the toll-free number before you buy.
10. Does your health-care provider recommend this brand? If not, make sure you discuss other options.

Make sure you like the format for daily insulin totals, bolus information, and blood glucose values. Check how the pump alerts you to highs, lows, missed bolus doses, or other problems. By looking at trends, you and your health-care team can adjust your insulin doses or carbohydrate intake.