Insulin Pump Cost

It�s hard to find information on insulin pump cost on the web. So here it is. I thought I�d share what I know. I too was frustrated when I first searched the web. Luckily I work as a diabetes educator so I had inside information. But you probably don�t. So to give you some ballpark figures, I thought I�d post the general price of pumps and supplies. I have heard that pump prices are now the same in Canada and the U.S (This is 2008). However, that said, I have seen the occasional reference to prices that are more than what we pay in Canada.

Now here goes, hold your breath. Because the price will try to take away most of your oxygen when your read it.

The Price of an Insulin Pump:

6800-7500 dollars Canadian or U.S. in the year 2008. Yes. For a pump, not a Smart car. It may even be more in your particular city, state or country.

But wait my good folks. That is not all. If you want to buy supplies so those pumps can actually work (now there�s an idea), then it�s more�

Infusion sets:

About 15-20 dollars every 3 days for an infusion set. That's the tubing that carries the insulin and the tiny tube that sits inside your body (fat tissue).

Insulin Reservoirs:

My reservoirs (they hold the insulin) cost $5 a pop. I use one a week. I can�t speak for other pumpers and their models (I use an old HTRON. Old. Err� excuse me Paradigm reps. I�m waiting for a new model from you to wear, and tear and write about. Sure. You can kindly email me at Contact Me to offer me a free pump. Now� uh..onwards!)

Continuous Blood Glucose Monitoring Sensors:

If you have a continuous glucose monitor you still need to test at least 4 times per day using your normal finger poke meter. This number is debatable but at least twice a day to calibrate the continuous glucose sensor and more if you are smart and want to avoid problems. Usually. The price of a continuous glucose monitor sensor is about $40 give or take in 2008 in Canada. Each sensor can be used for 3 days, according to Medtronic advice. However, from what I�ve read and heard, some people reset it and get up to 14 days from one (wowee !!). Depends on your luck. Some bum out early. (Be sure they are reading accurately!)

Other Insulin Pump Costs:

Some other items depending on the pump model. Be sure to ask the pump rep about the cost of all items to regularly run the pump and when items will need replacing eg.. Apparently the Medtronic continuous glucose monitor transmitter has a 6 or 12 month warranty and may last� well.. 6-12 months (according to some online users) to an unknown amount of time. I have heard the transmitter costs about 700 dollars Canadian in 2008.

Summary of Pump Costs

If you have good insurance, jump up and click your heels together.If you do not, find some good cuss words. You might also try sending your Christmas list to Santa early. Maybe he�ll be bored in the off-season and grant your wish sooner.

For specifics on insulin pump costs, you will need to call the companies. Contact information for the pump companies, who will supply you with more details on insulin pump cost, can be found here. Now, prices aside... I really do love my insulin pump and the quality of life it basal profiles provide me. It's a shame more people can't enjoy it.

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