Insulin Pump Therapy

An insulin pump is a small computerized device used to give a patient a constant drip of insulin. It delivers insulin through a thin tube that goes under the skin. The pump is about the size of a smartphone. It is attached to the body using an infusion set: thin plastic tubing and either a needle or a small tapered tube called a cannula put under the skin.

An insulin pump mimics what a normal pancreas would do and is programmed to meet each patients individual needs.

The device releases insulin almost the way your body naturally would: a steady flow throughout the day and night, called basal insulin, and an extra dose at mealtime, called a bolus, to handle rising blood sugar from the food you eat.

You program the pump for both basal and bolus doses. If you eat more than normal, you can program a larger bolus to cover the carbs in your food. A bolus can bring down high blood sugar at other times, too.

• Requires fewer needle sticks. A pump requires one shot every few days when you change your infusion set.
• A pump is more accurate than shots, helping better manage blood sugar levels.
• Patients experience fewer blood sugar lows, which is important if they often have hypoglycemia.
• It may improve A1c levels.
• Dosing for meals and snacks is easier.
• It’s easier to plan for exercise.
• It’s easier to bolus.
• It helps manage early morning high blood sugar, also called the “dawn phenomenon.”

Many insurances, including Medicare cover insulin pumps. Patients must meet certain criteria to qualify. Speak with a GEMCO Medical representative about the requirements and ask about our Insulin Pump & CGM Product Guide with Billing Overview.