What is Needed to Start
Pump
Touch screen pump connects tubing to a small patch called an infusion set that attaches to the body.
Sensor
Automatic applicator inserts sensor just under the surface of the skin and can be applied to many places on the body.
Controller
t:slim pump receives CGM readings to automatically adjust basal insulin delivery via an infusion set. Compatible smartphone can be used to view and control insulin delivery using the t:connect app.
Infusion Set
An infusion set contains the thin plastic tubing that delivers insulin from the pump to the body.
Device Details
Affordability and Access
$$$$
Widely covered for insulin-dependent type 1 and 2. Supplies for Pump and Sensor provided by DME suppliers. Price range; $5-$6,995 to start and $0-$200/month.
Data Monitoring Options
Yes
The t:connect mobile app for the t:slim X2 pump wirelessly uploads pump and CGM data to the cloud-based t:connect web application.
Data View Options
Yes
Data can be viewed directly on the pump screen or on the t:connect mobile app (available for both iOS and Android devices).
Duration and Storage
3-day pump 15-day sensor
Sensors last 14 days, and transmitters last 90 and work at 50ºF - 113ºF. Pump can be used for up to 72 hrs, battery life lasts five days with the use of CGM, and work between 40°F - 99°F.
Vision / Auditory / Dexterity
NO text to speech
YES vibration alerts
A LOT of dexterity needed
Patient Considerations
Comfort
Low profile. Low profile/low maintenance sensor. Small tubed pump with the most infusion sets to pick from.
Active Lifestyle
Exercise mode. Can manually increase target range to 140-160 mg/dl. Pump is not waterproof. CGM is waterproof.
Avoiding Highs and Lows
Auto basal and bolus insulin. Responds to CGM data by increasing or decreasing basal insulin delivery to prevent highs and lows and maintain a target blood glucose of 110 mg/dl. Auto-bolus is available once per hour to correct blood sugar above 180 mg/dl.
Easy to Use
Modern & no scanning required. Rechargeable and touchscreen pump. Sensor does not require scanning and sends minute-by-minute readings directly to the pump.
Easy Insulin Dosing
Automatically adjusts dosing. Sensor integration allows for the pump to automatically adjust insulin doses. More customizable dosing than pens or syringes. Basal in 0.001 increments, bolus in 0.01 increments. Extended bolus available.
Fewer Fingersticks
Factory-calibrated sensor. Fingersticks needed for backup only.
Privacy
Discreet. Ability to check blood sugar on phone or watch. Ability to bolus on a compatible smartphone. Pump has tubing but can be clipped to clothing or placed in a pocket to be discreet when needed. CGM has a built-in hypoglycemia safety alarm that alerts users when glucose is below 55 mg/dl and is always on.