Insulin Pumps and Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGM’s)

Ready to explore your options? We’ve created three free resources (click on the picture below to open PDF) to help you learn about diabetes technology in Australia:

  1. The Complete Guide to Automated Insulin Delivery (AID) in Australia
    Explains how AID systems function, their components, and the differences between available options.

  2. How to Access and Fund Insulin Pumps & CGMs in Australia
    Outlines funding pathways, including Type 1 Breakthrough and private health insurance, and their eligibility criteria.

  3. Side-by-Side Comparison Chart of all the AID Systems
    A snapshot overview of system features, algorithm settings, CGM compatibility, and more.

1. Guide to AID Systems

2. How to Access a Pump & CGM

3. Compare AID Systems

Start insulin pump, including Medtronic, Tandem, Ypsomed, and Omnipod systems, across Brisbane and Australia

Personalised guidance to help you get the most out of your pump, CGM or AID system.

Whether you're new to diabetes tech or due for an upgrade, we simplify the process, so you feel confident, supported, and informed every step of the way.

What is Automated Insulin Delivery (AID)?

These systems combine continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) with insulin delivery devices to automatically adjust insulin delivery based on real-time glucose readings.

Here’s a breakdown of how it works:

  1. Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM): A CGM system measures glucose levels in the interstitial fluid (the fluid between cells) continuously, usually through a small sensor inserted under the skin. It provides real-time glucose readings and trends.

  2. Insulin Pump: This is a device worn on the body that delivers insulin through a small catheter placed under the skin. The pump can be programmed to deliver a steady basal rate of insulin and boluses for meals or high glucose readings.

  3. Control Algorithm: The heart of an AID system is its control algorithm, which uses the glucose data from the CGM to determine how much insulin should be delivered. The algorithm can adjust insulin delivery rates based on current glucose levels and trends to help maintain target glucose levels.

  4. Automated Adjustments: Based on the glucose readings and programmed settings, the system can automatically increase or decrease insulin delivery. This helps to prevent high blood glucose (hyperglycemia) and low blood glucose (hypoglycemia).

  5. User Interaction: While these systems automate a lot of the insulin delivery process, users still need to input certain information, such as carbohydrate intake and exercise, and periodically calibrate their CGM sensors.

In essence, AID systems aim to simplify diabetes management by reducing the burden of manual insulin dosing and helping to improve blood glucose control. They can significantly enhance the quality of life for people with diabetes by providing a more stable and predictable glucose level with less frequent manual intervention.