If you have had your insulin pump for 4 years it will need to be replaced with a new pump. If your pump is tethered (uses a tube), it is no longer covered by warranty after 4 years, so it will not be replaced if it breaks.

Omnipod pumps do not have a warranty period, so you do not have to get a new pump after 4 years, but you can change to a different pump system if you wish to at this stage.

You will be contacted before it is time to upgrade your pump with information on which pumps you can choose from. If you are not sure when your upgrade is due, please contact the team for help.

All new pumps are now hybrid closed loop pumps.

What is a hybrid closed loop insulin pump?

A hybrid closed loop insulin pump can adjust your insulin automatically based on your blood glucose levels.

It works by joining together:

• a continuous glucose monitor (CGM)
• an insulin pump
• a computer program that helps decide how much insulin you need

The CGM measures your glucose levels all the time. The pump gives the insulin. The computer program uses your glucose readings to decide how much insulin to give to keep your glucose in your target range. It considers food, exercise, and your body’s insulin sensitivity however you still need to tell the pump information about many carbohydrates you eat and when you exercise so that the system can adjust the insulin for you.

Benefits of a hybrid closed loop system

• More stable glucose levels– It helps keep your levels in range more often.
• Fewer hypos– Because the system reduces insulin when your glucose is dropping.
• Less stress– The system makes many small adjustments for you, so you don’t have to do all the calculations.
• Better sleep– It can help manage glucose levels overnight, reducing night‑time highs and lows.
• More confidence to be active– The system reacts to changes caused by exercise.
• Improved quality of life– Many people find life with diabetes feels a little easier.

Hybrid closed loop pumps are very helpful tools for managing diabetes, but they are not a cure. You still need to keep an eye on your glucose levels and update the pump when needed.

You can find out more information about hybrid closed loop pumps here:

• Introduction to Hybrid Closed Loop | The Association of British Clinical Diabetologists

If the team have been in touch to tell you that you are due an upgrade, please let us know your pump choice by emailing fv.diabetespumpserv@nhs.scot