Meter
Omnipod GO device image

Summary

Good to have. Tried and true. Backup or day to day. Fingersticks required.

The Omnipod GO is a patch pump that provides a fixed rate of continuous rapid-acting insulin in seven rates ranging from 10 to 40 units per day for up to 72 hours. This device is a standalone tubeless, waterproof pod that provides a convenient alternative to traditional insulin delivery methods.

FDA-approved for people 18 years of age and older with type 2 diabetes who need long-acting insulin injections.

*Omnipod GO is expected to be commercially available in the United States in 2024

Components

Generic Meter : Lancets

Generic Meter : Lancets

Tiny needle called a lancet is used to poke the skin (on a finger or on your arm) to get a small sample of blood. The lancing device is packaged with the glucometer.

Generic Meter : Test Strips

Generic Meter : Test Strips

The strips work with the glucose meters to “read” blood sugar levels. One box of test trips usually contains between 25-50 single use strips.

Meter : Glucometer

Meter : Glucometer

The meter measures the amount of sugar in the small sample of blood that is placed on the disposable test strip. Most CGMs require testing blood sugar with a meter to calibrate the CGM device daily.

Omnipod GO Patch : Patch

Omnipod GO Patch : Patch

Pods come with reservoirs and directions for application. They can be applied anywhere on the body that is comfortable.

Omnipod GO Patch : Reservoir

Omnipod GO Patch : Reservoir

Fill reservoir is enclosed with the Pod and used to manually fill the Pod with insulin.

Device Details

Overview

Good to have. Tried and true. Backup or day to day. Finger-sticks required.

Convenient, waterproof, and simple to use.

Affordability and Access

$$$$
Most accessible. Available over the counter at all Pharmacies. Price range; $0-$200/month depending on insurance coverage.

$$$$
Widely covered for insulin-dependent 2. Supplies provided by DME or pharmacy. Price range; $33-$46/unit.

Data Monitoring Options

Limited Options
Data is available directly on the device. Some meters may be compatible with the Tidepool data management system. 

No Options

Data View Options

Yes
Data may be viewed directly on the device. Some meters contain a built-in USB connection that allows information to be uploaded to a data management system. 

No Options

Duration and Storage

Daily
Meters can last several years with battery changes/charging, they're used daily and work between 65ºF-86°F

72-Hours 
Patch can be worn for up to 72 hours and works in most temperatures (not for use in hot tubs, saunas, or freezing conditions). Does not require batteries or recharging.

Vision / Auditory / Dexterity

NO text to speech
NO 
vibration alerts
A LOT of dexterity needed

NO text to speech
NO vibration alerts
A LOT of dexterity needed

Patient Considerations

Active Lifestyle

Must pause activity to check blood sugar.

Tubeless and waterproof pod. No way to adjust long-acting insulin for higher activity on the fly, but the device is tubeless and waterproof. 

Avoiding Highs and Lows

Less data. Meters don't give as much blood sugar data as sensors do and require a high level of engagement and effort to avoid highs and lows.

Limited customizability. System requires manual dose adjustment and limits the ability to adjust insulin levels throughout the day. 

Comfort

Meter supplies carried and requires visible blood.

Free of tubing. Patches do not have tubing.

Easy Insulin Dosing

Limited features. No info on blood sugar trends.

Modifiable. The pod is available in seven different pre-programmed daily rates, ranging between ten and 40 units a day.

Easy to Use

Large display. Device typically has large display numbers for easier readouts, and it's very simple to operate.

Simple with few steps. Patch is replaced every 72-hours with a fixed rate of continuous rapid-acting insulin. 

Fewer Fingersticks

Frequent fingersticks are unavoidable.

Frequent finger-sticks are required.

Privacy

No attached device for blood glucose monitoring. 

Hideable. Bulkier patch pump, but not as noticeable as injections.