Getting an Insulin Pump
Insulin pumps offer greater control over diabetes but are more expensive than injections. In the UK, eligibility criteria exist to ensure pumps are provided to the most suitable candidates. Demand is high, and provision currently lags behind other European countries.
Funding Options
There are two main options for obtaining an insulin pump:
- Self-funding – purchasing the pump and consumables privately
- NHS funded – the pump and consumables are provided by the NHS for those meeting eligibility criteria
The most common route in the UK is NHS funding, which provides the pump at no direct cost to the patient.
Getting an Insulin Pump Privately
If purchasing privately, consider the total cost, including consumables such as infusion sets, reservoirs, and batteries. Costs typically range from £2,000 to £3,000 for the pump, and £1,000 to £2,000 annually for consumables. Ensure your healthcare team has expertise in insulin pumps and arrange whether you will receive follow-up care on the NHS or privately, as the NHS does not fund pumps bought privately.
Getting a Pump on the NHS
The process of obtaining an NHS-funded insulin pump varies across the UK due to differences in budgets, demand, and available specialist healthcare staff. The advantage is that the pump is free, which for many outweighs potential delays in eligibility.
The Process
- Be under or transfer to a clinic with insulin pump specialists
- Meet eligibility criteria set out in NICE guidelines
- Work with your health team to demonstrate commitment to diabetes control
- Undergo funding approval
- Complete insulin pump training
The process can take from a few weeks to several months or over a year, depending on local availability and demand.