How Do I Get An Insulin Pump? - Advanced Therapeutics (UK) Ltd

The First Steps

If you’re considering insulin pump therapy as a means to manage your Type 1 diabetes, the first step is to have a thorough discussion with your dedicated health care team. They will assess your current condition and determine if this is the right course of action for you. In some cases, they may recommend starting with a programme of flexible (multiple) injection therapy, coupled with carbohydrate counting, to gauge its effectiveness. Should your control not show significant improvement, the next option may be to get an insulin pump.

Can I Get An Insulin Pump On The NHS?

Insulin pumps are vital for precise and efficient insulin delivery and they might be available to your via your Hospital Trust. However, it’s important to note that this funding is contingent on a clinical decision made by your health care consultant, which will determine whether or not you get an insulin pump. This means that your consultant will evaluate your case and recommend the pump if it aligns with your specific needs and circumstances.

For the NHS to consider funding an insulin pump, you must meet the criteria outlined in the NICE (National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence) Guidelines. These guidelines serve as a benchmark for healthcare professionals to ensure that patients receive the most effective and appropriate treatments. To gain a deeper understanding of these guidelines, you can access the following resources:

Full Guidance on the Appraisal
This comprehensive document includes detailed recommendations along with a summary of all the supporting evidence. It provides an in-depth overview of the criteria used to assess eligibility for insulin pump therapy – a must-read for those looking to get an insulin pump.

Quick Reference Guide
Designed for healthcare professionals, this concise version offers a streamlined overview of the guidelines. It serves as a quick reference point for busy medical practitioners.

Understanding NICE Guidance
Tailored for individuals with specific medical conditions and their caregivers, this resource provides a user-friendly description of the guidance. It aims to empower patients with the knowledge they need to engage effectively with their healthcare team.

NICE Guidelines

NICE has released its conclusive recommendations regarding hybrid closed-loop systems for managing Type 1 diabetes. This groundbreaking appraisal underscores the significant strides in Type 1 diabetes care, providing patients with advanced technology that seamlessly integrates insulin delivery with real-time glucose monitoring. With meticulous evaluation and consideration, NICE has affirmed the efficacy and safety of hybrid closed-loop systems, offering individuals with Type 1 diabetes a newfound sense of control.

What Happens Next

Should you find yourself meeting the criteria within the NICE Guidelines but encounter challenges in obtaining approval from your health care team or securing funding from your Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), you’re not alone. Consider reaching out to INPUT Patient Advocacy for valuable advice and support. Their expertise can be instrumental in navigating the bureaucratic hurdles and ensuring you have access to the best possible care.

Embarking on insulin pump therapy requires a thoughtful and collaborative approach with your healthcare team. By adhering to the NICE Guidelines and seeking support when needed, you can take a significant step towards achieving better Type 1 diabetes management. Don’t hesitate to explore this innovative treatment option and remember, when the time is right, take that crucial step to get an insulin pump.

You can learn more about the benefits of an insulin pump here and about what your life could soon look like once you get an insulin pump here.