FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions

You have questions? We have answers.

 

The OmniPod System

• What are the main differences between the current OmniPod and the new OmniPod?

• The new OmniPod System has the same unique features you love, now with even more improvements built in. The Pod and the PDM don't just look different; there are also changes in the way the OmniPod functions, making it even more convenient and easier to use.
  • The Pod: The new Pod is 34% smaller, 25% lighter and 16% slimmer, and has added safety features.
  • The PDM: The new PDM has updated functionality, including the way the Insulin on Board (IOB) is calculated and displayed, the customizable ID screen, vibration modes and more.
  Visit MyOmniPodTraining.com to learn more about all of the new features and improvements of the new OmniPod System.

   

• How does the OmniPod System compare to conventional insulin pumps?

• Like conventional insulin pumps, the OmniPod features precise, personalized continuous insulin delivery with basal rate and bolus delivery options, safety checks and alarm features. The difference lies in the innovative, award-winning design. Its two parts communicate wirelessly, which eliminates the tubing, and the Pod’s automated insertion is virtually pain-free. The PDM has a fully integrated FreeStyle® blood glucose meter, so there is nothing extra to carry, and no manual entry is required. This makes the OmniPod simple to learn and easy to live with.

   

• What does truly continuous insulin delivery mean?

• Because the Pod has no tubing, there is never a reason to disconnect, so you are always receiving insulin—delivery is truly continuous. By contrast, people who wear traditional pumps routinely disconnect to bathe, swim, play contact sports or during intimate moments. A recent clinical study confirmed that even a 30-minute interruption of basal insulin delivery results in significant glucose elevation.

   

• Is the OmniPod System cleared for everyone — even children and teens?

• The OmniPod is cleared for people of all ages who have diabetes and use insulin—including children and teens.

   

• Does the OmniPod System have CGM?

• While the OmniPod and continuous glucose monitoring systems (CGMS) are compatible with each other, they are not yet designed to work as an integrated system.

   

• Does the OmniPod System provide data download capability?

• The OmniPod System downloads insulin delivery, BG and carbohydrate records to the CoPilot^® Health Management System, enabling you to create customized reports, charts and graphs of your records. You can download this software at no charge.

   

• How small is the OmniPod System?

• Designed for discretion, the new Pod is now 34% smaller, 25% lighter and 16% slimmer: 1.53 in x 2.05 in x 0.57 in (3.9 cm x 5.2 cm x 1.45 cm). Click here to see the Pod in comparison to these everyday items. The  PDM (Personal Diabetes Manager) is: 2.5 in x 4.5 in x 1.0 in (6.4 cm x 11.4 cm x 2.5 cm); about the same size as a personal digital assistant (PDA).

   

• Can I swim with the OmniPod System?

• The Pod has a waterproof IPX8 rating. The waterproof Pod can go in the pool, the shower or the tub for up to 25 feet for 60 minutes with no need to disrupt insulin delivery.
  The PDM is not waterproof.

   

• Can I travel while using the OmniPod System?

• Yes. We recommend that you contact your airline for information on current security requirements.

   

• Can I play sports while wearing a Pod?

• Yes. You can play sports and participate in physical activities while wearing a Pod—just leave the PDM in your gym bag. When changing Pods, we recommend choosing the most appropriate site for the planned activities (when possible). For more suggestions, please contact our Customer Care department. 

   

• How do the OmniPod and PDM communicate with each other?

• The Pod and PDM communicate using wireless technology, enabling you to manage your diabetes with discretion and ease.

   

• Do the OmniPod and the PDM always have to be near each other?

• No, the Pod and PDM do not always have to be near each other because they are not in constant communication. You only need to have them near each other when you need to program insulin delivery, or respond to Pod alarms or alerts.

   

• How close do the OmniPod and the PDM need to be to communicate with each other?

• IMPORTANT: When activating a new Pod, it must be placed to the right of and touching the PDM.

   

  For regular use (making changes in your basal program, delivering a bolus or checking Pod status), the communication distance is up to 5 feet.

   

  Otherwise, the Pod and the PDM do not need to be near each other at all. The Pod will continue to deliver your current background (or basal) insulin even if your PDM is not nearby.

   

• What if someone near me is also wearing an OmniPod?

• During priming, each Pod establishes a unique, one-to-one relationship with your PDM, so there is no chance of someone else’s PDM interfering with your OmniPod System.

   

  The new PDM also has an ID screen where you add your name and a background color of your choice so that you can easily identify your PDM. Because the ID screen must be acknowledged each time the PDM is powered on, you can be sure you have the right PDM before using it.

   

• Is training available to start on the new OmniPod?

• If you're new to the OmniPod, one of our certified OmniPod pump trainers will work with you to get you up and running with the System. In the meantime, we designed MyOmniPodTraining.com and a convenient pre-training module, which offers a broad range of in-depth training, both on insulin pumping in general and the OmniPod in particular. It's great for practice before your first training session. Access the training modules and other helpful resources in our MyOmniPodTraining.com Resource Center. We encourage you to explore this website, in particular the Resource Center, and review the training materials before you receive your new System.

   

  If you're currently using the OmniPod, we designed MyOmniPodTraining.com and a convenient training module to help you learn about all of the new features and improvements of the new OmniPod. Access the training modules and other helpful resources in our MyOmniPodTraining.com Resource Center. We encourage you to explore this website, in particular the Resource Center, and review the training materials before you receive your new System.

   

• Are there any differences in insurance coverage for the new OmniPod? Will the new OmniPod be covered by Medicare and Medicaid?

• The new OmniPod System will continue to have the same reimbursement coverage through insurance carriers. Our Reimbursement Team will coordinate your health insurance coverage and benefits through your insurance carrier.

   

  If you're currently an OmniPod user and have questions about your insurance coverage, please call 1-800-591-3455 (Option 2).

   

  If you're interested in the OmniPod System and are curious about your insurance coverage, please click here to complete a user-friendly form that will allow us to work with your insurance provider to determine your coverage.

   

• How much does the OmniPod System cost?

• The actual insulin pump price for the OmniPod System will vary based on your insurance coverage. We are happy to process your paperwork to find the exact insulin pump cost for you and your family. You can also check your insurance coverage on our website by clicking here.

   

The Pod

• What are the main differences between the old Pod and the new Pod?
• The Pod not only looks different, but also has enhanced safety features built in.
  • Designed for discretion, the new Pod is 34% smaller, 25% lighter and 16% slimmer. And although it's smaller, it still holds up to 200 units of insulin.
  • The Pod's new pink slide insert, which is visible through the top of the Pod, helps you verify that the cannula has deployed.
  • The larger needle cap makes it easier to remove when starting up a new Pod.

   

• Will my old Pods work with the new PDM? Will my old PDM work with the new Pods?
• No, your old Pods will not work with the new PDM. And your old PDM will not work with the new Pods. The new Pods and the new PDM were designed to only communicate with each other.

   

• Can I exchange old Pods for new Pods?
• Converting to the new OmniPod System is tied to your regular re-order date, which should limit the amount of Pods you have at the time you receive the new System. If you have extra Pods, you may use them with your old PDM (Note: they are not compatible with the new PDM). After converting to the new System, old Pods will not be replaced for new Pods.

   

• Does the Pod come pre-filled with insulin?
• The Pod does not come pre-filled with insulin; you use the fill syringe enclosed with each Pod to fill it with the amount of insulin you need.

   

• What type of insulin should I use with the Pod?
• The Pod is designed to be used with U-100 rapid-acting insulin. The following U-100 rapid-acting insulin analogs have been tested and found to be safe for use in the Pod: Novolog,® Humalog,® or Apidra.® Before using a different insulin with the OmniPod System, check the insulin drug label to make sure it can be used with a pump and consult with your healthcare professional.

   

• How much insulin does the Pod hold?
• The Pod can hold up to 200 units of insulin; it requires a minimum of 85 units of insulin to begin operation. Simply fill the Pod with the amount of insulin you will need while wearing it, up to 200 units. For example, if you plan to use a Pod for 48 hours, you need to fill it with enough insulin to last you 48 hours.

   

• What type of adhesive does the Pod use?
• The Pod uses an adhesive similar to the adhesive used with common infusion sets. The adhesive is latex-free, acrylic-based and ideal for holding the Pod, even in the presence of moisture. It is designed to hold the Pod securely in place for the duration of wear.

   

• Where on my body can I wear the Pod?
• The Pod’s automated cannula insertion enables you to wear it many places. We recommend that you begin on your abdomen since it is easy to access and see what you’re doing. Once you have mastered using the Pod, however, you can wear it on your leg, upper thigh, lower back or the back of your upper arm — in fact, anywhere you would give yourself a shot. Of course, you want to avoid wearing the Pod within 2" of your navel, and in other areas where belts, waistbands, or tight clothing may rub against, disturb or dislodge it. 

   

• How long do I wear each Pod?
• A Pod expires 72 hours after activation. You should refer to the insulin labeling and follow your healthcare provider’s directions concerning when to replace the Pod.

   

• What is the length of the Pod's cannula?
• The Pod's automated insertion system safely and consistently inserts the soft cannula below the skin to a depth of 6.5 mm and at an angle of about 60 degrees to the skin.

   

• Is the Pod waterproof?
• The Pod has an IPX8 waterproof rating; this international standard means that the Pod has been tested to function normally in 25 feet of water for up to 60 minutes. As a precaution, if you plan to be in water for a long time, we recommend that you get out occasionally to make sure that the adhesive is still securely attached to your skin. Because the temperature of most hot tubs can spoil insulin, making it ineffective, we do not recommend wearing the Pod in a hot tub, unless you keep it out of the water.

   

The PDM (Personal Diabetes Manager)

• What are the main differences between the old PDM and the new PDM?

• The new PDM has enhanced functionality that will improve your experience with the System.
  • The PDM status screen now always shows details about your current insulin on board (IOB). Correction and meal boluses are used to calculate your IOB when the suggested bolus calculator is on and being used.
  • The communication distance between the PDM and Pod during regular use has increased up to 5 ft. However, when activating a new Pod, it must be placed to the right of and touching the PDM.
  • There's now a vibration option available for certain reminders and safety notifications.

   

• How do I know what PDM model I am using?

• The new PDM, model UST400, has a black exterior with a dark grey lens and buttons, and is labeled UST400 on the back. The current PDM, model UST200, has a blue exterior with a light grey lens and buttons, and is labeled UST200 on the back.

   

• Is a new test strip required for the new PDM?

• No, a new test strip is not required for the new PDM. The new PDM will continue use the same FreeStyle® test strips as the current PDM. Click here for more information on test strip use.

   

• What are my data download/management options?

• The OmniPod System downloads insulin delivery totals, blood glucose values and carbohydrate records via a combination of the CoPilot® Health Management System and the OmniPod Extension software, enabling you to create customized reports, charts and graphs of all your records. You can download this software at no charge.
  
  Please note: if you currently use the OmniPod and are converting to the new System with PDM model UST400, an update is required to your installation of the OmniPod Extension.

   

• Will my old PDM work with the new Pods? Will my old Pods work with the new PDM?

• No, the new PDM will not work with your old Pods. And the new Pods will not work with your old PDM. The new PDM and new Pods were designed to only communicate with each other.

   

• How long do the batteries last in the PDM?

• The PDM batteries last approximately 3 weeks. Extensive use of the bright mode option may shorten this timeframe.

   

• What if I leave my PDM at home (at the office, at the gym, etc.)?

• Your Pod will continue to deliver your current background (or basal) insulin, even if you do not have your PDM with you. However, you will not be able to make changes to your basal delivery, deliver bolus doses, test your BG or respond to alarms or alerts when your PDM is not with you.

   

• What happens if I lose my PDM?

• Our experience has been that very few people lose their PDM. However, if you do lose your PDM, please contact Customer Care immediately to purchase a replacement. In most cases you will receive your replacement within 24 hours. Of course, some people like to order a back-up PDM to have on hand just in case.

   

• Is the PDM waterproof?

• The PDM is not waterproof. Do not place it in or near water.

   

Ordering the OmniPod System

• If I'm new to the OmniPod, how do I order the OmniPod System?

• If you're new to the OmniPod System, simply access the necessary order forms online, through your local OmniPod rep or through your healthcare provider's office. At any time you may also call us at 1-866-213-8971 to speak with an OmniPod representative. The OmniPod System is a prescription-only device, so you will need to work with your healthcare provider to complete the order forms.

   

• How much does the OmniPod insulin pump cost?

• The actual insulin pump price for the OmniPod System will vary based on your insurance coverage. We are happy to process your paperwork to find the exact insulin pump cost for you and your family.

   

• Does my insurance cover the OmniPod System?

• Insulet has secured insurance coverage for the OmniPod System with a broad range of national and regional health insurance plans. When you place your order for the System, we will contact your insurance plan to understand your benefits, and then contact you to review them with you before completing your order. You can also check your insurance coverage on our website by clicking here.

   

• What is the OmniPod Demo Kit?

• The Demo Kit includes a Demo Pod designed to give you a true sense of the Pod's comfort and flexibility, without actually having it insert. You just apply the adhesive anywhere you'd normally give an injection and wear it for up to 3 days to see how it feels.

   

  The Kit also comes with a brochure that tells you more about the OmniPod System, including instructions for applying the Demo Pod and for taking the next steps to get started.

   

  Click here to order your FREE Demo Kit today.

   

• Do you offer 24/7 customer support?

• Yes, we do offer toll-free Customer Care 7 days a week, 24 hours a day at 800.591.3455 (When calling from outside the US, please dial 781.457.5098). Our Customer Care Representatives will be happy to help you with questions about your OmniPod System. The Customer Care number can also be found on the back of your PDM.

   

• How do I order supplies?

• Simply call our Customer Care department at 800.591.3455 and select the option to place an order from the menu prompts. This line is staffed Monday through Friday, between 8:30 AM and 8:00 PM, eastern time.

   

• Does Insulet offer any trade-in programs for other pumps or offer any financial assistance programs?

• We do not currently have a financial assistance program. Please visit our Upgrade Offers page for current information on all available offers.

   

• Does Insulet offer a guarantee program?

• Insulet Corporation offers a limited 45-day money-back guarantee subject to certain terms and conditions, including the following:
  • The OmniPod Starter Kit can be returned for a full refund.
  • The request for money back must be made within 45 days of the first shipment date.
  • Only product from your first shipment is eligible for money back.
  • You have 14 days from the request date to return product.
  • Refunds will be issued to you and your health insurance provider according to the     amounts actually paid for refundable product.
  • Only unopened OmniPod 10-pack boxes can be returned for refund.
  Please call Customer Support at 800.591.3455 for further information about the limited 45-day money-back guarantee, or to initiate a request.

Converting to the New OmniPod

• If I currently use the OmniPod, When will I receive my new OmniPod System?

• We are at the very beginning of the launch of the new OmniPod. The process is slightly different for new customers than it is for existing OmniPod wearers.

   

  As an existing OmniPod wearer, your conversion to the new OmniPod System is linked to your regular reorder cycle. We expect to start this transition shortly. When we begin, you will receive a notification before your reorder date, letting you know that you're scheduled to get the new OmniPod in your next shipment. This notification will also contain helpful information about how to access resources to educate yourself on the new features, so you'll be ready to use the new System when it arrives. The start of this transition is timed to make sure we have enough supply of the new OmniPod to ensure a smooth and fair conversion for all OmniPod wearers. We expect everyone to be converted to the new OmniPod within the next six months.

   

• How will I know when it's my time to convert?

• We will reach out to you through e-mail and/or phone when it's time for you to convert to the new OmniPod. You can be confident that we'll give you plenty of notice before your new OmniPod is shipped.

   

• If I currently use the OmniPod, how do I convert to the new OmniPod System?

• Converting to the new OmniPod will be easy. We will reach out to you through e-mail and/or phone when it's time for you to convert to the new OmniPod. You can be confident that we'll give you plenty of notice before your new OmniPod is shipped.

   

  In the mean time, we designed MyOmniPodTraining.com and a convenient training module to help you learn about all of the new features and improvements of the new OmniPod. Access the training modules and other helpful resources in our MyOmniPodTraining.com Resource Center. We encourage you to explore MyOmniPodTraining.com, in particular the Resource Center, and review the training materials before you receive your new System.

   

• If I currently use the OmniPod, how do I learn more about converting to the new OmniPod?

• On MyOmniPod.com/NewOmniPod we post the latest company news on the timing and availability of the new OmniPod. Additionally, MyOmniPodTraining.com is now available, which is a 24-7 resource center for the new OmniPod. We encourage you to visit this website to explore all of the details about the new OmniPod.

   

• Is it mandatory to switch to the new OmniPod?

• Yes. At some point Insulet will discontinue production of the old OmniPod System. At that time we will work with any remaining users of the old OmniPod to make the transition to the new OmniPod.

   

• Is training available to start on the new OmniPod?

• If you're currently using the OmniPod, we designed MyOmniPodTraining.com and a convenient training module to help you learn about all of the new features and improvements of the new OmniPod. Access the training modules and other helpful resources in our MyOmniPodTraining.com Resource Center. We encourage you to explore this website, in particular the Resource Center, and review the training materials before you receive your new System.

   

• If I currently use the OmniPod, what will it cost to convert to the new OmniPod?

• As a courtesy to our existing OmniPod wearers, we are offering a one-time conversion to the new OmniPod System at no additional cost to you; provided you're still within your 4-year limited PDM warranty when it's your time to convert.

   

  If your OmniPod warranty has expired or is about to expire, please contact our reimbursement team at 800-591-3455 (Option 2). We will work with you to renew your warranty and avoid any delays in your shipment of the new OmniPod.