What are the benefits, drawbacks, features, and costs of the Omnipod DASH insulin delivery system?
The Omnipod DASH is an advanced insulin delivery system designed for people with diabetes. It is a tubeless pump, meaning it does not require tubing to connect to your body. Instead, it uses a small, white Pod that adheres to your skin and can be worn for up to 3 days. The system is controlled by a handheld device called the Personal Diabetes Manager (PDM), which is essentially a dedicated mobile phone with a 4-inch color touchscreen. The DASH model is the first to feature Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for wireless communication between the Pod and the PDM. The Pods hold up to 200 units of insulin and are waterproof up to 25 feet for 60 minutes. The PDM includes a food database from Calorie King with over 80,000 food items and allows for manual entry of blood sugar results and other diabetes data. However, it does not have a built-in glucose meter, which some users find inconvenient. The system uses rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, which can be harder to find than standard AAA batteries. The Omnipod DASH is FDA approved for all ages and is covered by Medicare Part D for those with type 2 diabetes. The cost of the system varies depending on insurance coverage and where you purchase your supplies. A box of 5 Pods can range from $270 to $369 at pharmacies, while the starter kit, including the PDM, can cost over $1,000 out of pocket. Despite some drawbacks, such as the lack of CGM integration and the need to use a separate meter, many users find the DASH system convenient and effective for managing their diabetes.