Selection Criteria for Insulin Pumps & AID

Assisting With Pump & Infusion Set Selection

Selecting an insulin pump and infusion set that align with an individual’s lifestyle, preferences, and clinical profile is critical for successful diabetes management. While all pumps and infusion sets share fundamental design features, small differences can significantly impact comfort, usability, and treatment satisfaction.

Why the Right Fit Matters

Although most insulin pumps can be returned within 30 days, very few people with diabetes (PWD) do so. After that window closes, users are often locked into their choice until the device’s warranty expires. Fortunately, as automated insulin delivery (AID) systems are increasingly covered under pharmacy benefits, switching or upgrading has become more accessible.

Individuals who aren’t familiar with their device options may end up with a pump or infusion set that isn’t well suited to their needs. It’s the responsibility of diabetes care and education specialists (DCESs) and other healthcare professionals to stay informed about the latest pump and infusion technologies, integrated sensors, and insertion devices to guide patient-centered selection.

Quick Insight: A well-matched device improves adherence, confidence, and quality of life.

Step 1: Confirm Coverage

Start the process by verifying the person’s insurance coverage or self-pay options.

• Private insurance: Most allow members to choose from several insulin pump options.

• Government or select private plans: Some may only cover specific brands or models.

Tip: Direct patients to danatech’s Insulin Pump Comparison Pages for detailed, unbiased device comparisons. Encourage them to contact manufacturers for “test drives” or demo experiences before committing.

Step 2: Evaluate Pump Features

When reviewing available pumps, consider both clinical functionality and user experience.

Step 3: Choose the Right Infusion Set

Infusion sets are as individualized as pumps themselves. For tubed pumps, selecting the right set is critical to ensure reliable insulin delivery, comfort, and minimal site complications. However, patch-style pumps (such as the Omnipod® system) deliver insulin through an integrated cannula and do not require a separate infusion set or tubing, simplifying the setup and reducing the number of supplies.

Assess for the following:

• Cannula Type: Teflon® (soft) vs. stainless steel (metal)

• Length: Choose based on body composition and site depth

• Tubing Length: Shorter for low-profile wear, longer for flexibility

• Insertion Angle: Straight (90°) or angled (20–45°) depending on tissue and comfort

• Adhesion Strength: Should accommodate sweat, activity, or moisture exposure

• Insertion Method: Manual vs. automatic device based on dexterity

• Aesthetics: Visibility, comfort, and user preference for wear location

If an infusion set isn’t specified during ordering, a “default” set may be shipped—often not the best fit. Taking time to match the set to individual needs helps prevent frustration and therapy discontinuation.

Practice Pearl: Encourage patients to rotate sites consistently and inspect for lipohypertrophy or irritation.

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Key Takeaways

• Device selection should balance clinical performance with personal preference.
• Encourage hands-on trials when possible.
• Stay informed about insurance coverage and emerging technologies.
• Reinforce site care and infusion set rotation as part of ongoing education.

Explore More on danatech

• Find & Compare Insulin Pumps

• Find Infusion Sets by Pump Model

• Learn More About AID Systems

Learning Question:

Which of the following factors most directly influences whether a pump user can switch to a different device after purchase?

A) Display size

B) Insurance coverage and warranty terms

C) Reservoir volume

D) Type of infusion set

(Answer: B — coverage and warranty determine replacement flexibility.)

References:

^{American Diabetes Association. Standards of Medical Care in Diabetes—2024. Diabetes Care. ADCES Insulin Pump Therapy Guidelines, ISPAD Clinical Practice Consensus Guidelines 2022: Insulin Pump Therapy. Endocrine Society. Management of Continuous Subcutaneous Insulin Infusion (CSII) and Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM). Clinical Research on Insulin Pumps & Automated Insulin Delivery (AID) Systems: Beck RW, Riddlesworth T, et al. Effect of Continuous Glucose Monitoring on Glycemic Control in Adults With Type 1 Diabetes Using Insulin Injections: The DIAMOND Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA, 2017.}