Omnipod GO Patch
Meter
Summary
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
Good to have. Tried and true. Backup or day to day. Fingersticks required.
Components
Patch
Pods come with reservoirs and directions for application. They can be applied anywhere on the body that is comfortable.
Reservoir
Fill reservoir is enclosed with the Pod and used to manually fill the Pod with insulin.
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.
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.
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.
Device Details
Overview
Convenient, waterproof, and simple to use.
Good to have. Tried and true. Backup or day to day. Finger-sticks required.
Affordability and Access
$$$$
Widely covered for insulin-dependent 2. Supplies provided by DME or pharmacy. Price range; $33-$46/unit.
$$$$
Most accessible. Available over the counter at all Pharmacies. Price range; $0-$200/month depending on insurance coverage.
Data Monitoring Options
No Options
Limited Options
Data is available directly on the device. Some meters may be compatible with the Tidepool data management system.
Data View Options
No 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.
Duration and Storage
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.
Daily
Meters can last several years with battery changes/charging, they're used daily and work between 65ºF-86°F
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
Tubeless and waterproof pod. No way to adjust long-acting insulin for higher activity on the fly, but the device is tubeless and waterproof.
Must pause activity to check blood sugar.
Avoiding Highs and Lows
Limited customizability. System requires manual dose adjustment and limits the ability to adjust insulin levels throughout the day.
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.
Comfort
Free of tubing. Patches do not have tubing.
Meter supplies carried and requires visible blood.
Easy Insulin Dosing
Modifiable. The pod is available in seven different pre-programmed daily rates, ranging between ten and 40 units a day.
Limited features. No info on blood sugar trends.
Easy to Use
Simple with few steps. Patch is replaced every 72-hours with a fixed rate of continuous rapid-acting insulin.
Large display. Device typically has large display numbers for easier readouts, and it's very simple to operate.
Fewer Fingersticks
Frequent finger-sticks are required.
Frequent fingersticks are unavoidable.
Privacy
Hideable. Bulkier patch pump, but not as noticeable as injections.
No attached device for blood glucose monitoring.