If you or your family member is thinking about using an insulin pump, it is helpful to know what is required first. This handout includes a list for you to review and discuss with your health care team.
A pump can help people to better manage blood sugar levels, but success will depend on a number of things. The list to the right will help you realize the effort required in order to use a pump safely.
You will need to work with your health care team and insurance company to help decide if you are ready for a pump. Your health insurance company may have other rules for using a pump.
Please talk with your diabetes care team if you have any questions.
Questions and Notes
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Requirements Before a Pump Is Prescribed
Must be under the care of a provider specializing in diabetes.
Must have had diabetes for at least 6 months.
Injecting insulin at least 3 times per day.
Monitoring blood sugars with a meter or continuous glucose monitor (CGM).
Motivated to improve blood sugars.
Attend clinic visits regularly.
Willing to communicate with diabetes staff between clinic visits.
Meet with dietitian diabetes educator to review carb counting and use an insulin carb ratio.
Meet with a nurse diabetes educator to discuss insulin pumps/pump therapy (understand basic pump function: what they can and cannot do).
Medicare only: Medicare may require proof that you do not make enough insulin to manage your blood sugars. This means you will need lab work done, including a fasting glucose and C-peptide.
