Omnipod Insulin Pump

The Insulet Pump Review

The Omnipod insulin pump by Insulet Corporation has revolutionized pumping. But is everyone happy with it? Since the pump was introduced in 2005, users have been split between praising the device and criticizing it. So, what is the big deal? Let's take a look.

Omnipod Pump - Corporate Overview

The Omnipod is developed by Insulet Corporation. The company is a remarkably inspirational story. The founder's son had diabetes and could benefit from insulin pump therapy. The problem was that traditional pumps were cumbersome due to the tubing and size. In response, the Omnipod was created. It is small, lightweight and requires no tubing.

Insulet was founded in 2000 and released its first pump in 2005. The company is located just outside of Boston in Bedford Massachusetts.

Omnipod Insulin Pump - Key Advantages

No Tubing: This is the whole point of this pump. The entire device straps to your skin, eliminating the need for tubing.

Small Size: Most of the electronic aspects of the device are in a handheld remote or PDA. Thus, the insulin pumping portion (cannula, insulin reservoir, etc.) adheres to your skin.

Painless Insertion: The cannula inserts remarkably easy into the skin.

Remote/Meter: You control the devise with a handheld remote PDA. There is also a built in Freestyle glucose meter. It is a one stop solution to insulin management.

Lower Upfront Costs: The upfront costs for the device are less expensive. However, you need to do a cost analysis to determine accurately your ongoing cost. Each Pod lasts only so long and you will need to buy many of them throughout the life of the product.

Omnipod Insulin Pump - Key Disadvantages

With great promise comes great responsibility or at least criticism in this case.

Inadequate Adhesive: Active users complain that the adhesive is inadequate. Often extra tape, an ace bandage, or some other attachment is needed to improvise the standard company supplied adhesion.

Poor Quality: Users complain that often the Omnipod will malfunction, requiring injections while a new Pod is delivered.

Poor Customer Service: Users also complain that often the replacement Pod’s will not be sent promptly. If you live in Boston, then your wait is minimal. You could even probably drive to the company to get a replacement. If you live in Arizona, well get your needles out and ready. You will have to wait awhile.

Forgetfulness: If you forget the PDA when you leave the house or work, you cannot adjust the insulin flow in the Pod.

Infusion Set

Essentially the POD is a self contained infusion set. There is no tubing. Everything is included on the Pod except the insulin. Simply insert your insulin into the pod, attach and go!

Bottom Line

The Omnipod is a remarkable breakthrough in insulin pump therapy. Like many smaller pump companies we have reviewed, customer service can be a problem.

More so than many, choosing this pump really comes down to your personal feelings.

For some, the pumps flexibility and ease of use will far outweigh any inconvenience. For others, battling inconsistent quality and customer service issues to get new Pods may cause them to choose another more dependable solution.

Choose Wisely For You!

Technical Specifications

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We have compiled the above information and believe it to be accurate. Nonetheless, we do not warrrant it as such. Purchasing an insulin pump is a very persoanl and involved process. We encourage you to do your own due diligence.