Help Getting an Insulin Pump

According to the American Diabetic Association, diabetics using insulin pumps experience fewer blood-sugar swings and have better control over their disease. Since insulin pumps deliver a constant stream of insulin that is then topped up at mealtimes, diabetics using pumps can leave the pain and constraints of insulin shots behind. Insulin pumps can benefit many diabetics, but they are not always easily accessible. Pumps are expensive, and not all insurance companies cover them. If you want to try an insulin pump to control your diabetes but don't think you can get one, there is help available.

Getting a Pump: Insurance Holders

• If you think an insulin pump is right for you, start with your doctor. After your doctor has evaluated you and decided you are a good candidate for a pump, she can help you explore your options for getting one. If you have insurance that covers insulin pumps and the required monthly supplies, confirmation from your doctor that the pump is right for you may be all you need to do to get your pump for free or for the price of your co-pay.

Getting a Pump: No Insurance

• If your doctor decides a pump is right for you and you don't have insurance, things can be a little more difficult. According to Diabetes Wellbeing, an insulin pump costs approximately $6,000, and the monthly supplies range from $150 to $300. There are a few less expensive pumps on the market, including the OmniPod and DANAII, but the cost of the monthly supplies for these lower priced pumps tends to be higher. Most pump manufacturers have programs that provide pumps to the uninsured for reduced cost or for free, but you still will need to pay for the monthly supplies for the pump. Depending on the pump manufacturer, you may qualify for a discount on supplies as well. Your doctor is a great source of information about these programs, so discuss your financial concerns with your doctor when determining which pump is the right choice for you. They may also be able to advise you about local programs that assist people with health-care costs that may be able to help you.

What about Used Pumps?

• Used insulin pumps are an option when cost is an issue, but according to Diabetes Health, you must tread carefully. Because insulin pumps require a prescription, it is not legal for one person to privately sell you an insulin pump. Although it is possible to buy pumps this way, you will not be able to use any warranty left on the pump, and you will still need a prescription for monthly supplies. It is possible for one pump owner to transfer ownership of his pump to another person through the pump manufacturer. The guidelines for this kind of transfer differ between manufacturers, but generally the transfer requires a prescription from your doctor and proof that you have received training on the pump. When ownership is transferred this way, you may be able to use any existing warranty and the manufacturer may also refurbish the pump. In addition to private sales, check with the manufacturers themselves for used-pump programs they may run.