Diabetes: Omnipod Dash Insulin Pump Review

For 8 months in 2020, I had been using the insulin pump, Omnipod Dash with Dexcom to manage my Type 1 Diabetes. I thought it was time to review this diabetes device. I have been a diabetic for 13 years soon to be 14 in March/April. Before going on a insulin pump I was using insulin pens for the longest time. That is another story itself. 

What is Omnipod Dash?

Omnipod Dash is a tubeless wearable insulin pump that sends a consistent amount of basal (background) insulin for up to 3 days. The  PDM (Personal Diabetes Manager) is a dumb-down Android phone that only runs the software by Omnipod. The PDM then connects to the insulin pump pods by Bluetooth. The pods are waterproof, so that means no disconnecting for a shower or jumping in the pool. The PDM is NOT waterproof. Also, the Omnipod Dash does not commutate with a CGM, like Dexcom.  

The Process

For me, it was super simple. I had gone to an endocrinologist app and talked to my doctor about going on a pump and discussing some of the different options. I was given a list of insulin pumps and told to research each myself. I could either tell him which one I was interested in, so he could start the paperwork. Or go on the pumps website, fill out the contact forms, and start the process that way. 

By the end of the week, I had filled out forms online for Omnipod and was contacted within 3-4 days. I filled out everything on a Friday and was contacted by Monday to go over questions, like insurance and whatnot. By that Friday I was informed what the cost would be with my insurance. I gave them the go-ahead and within a week my order was shipped. It was a really quick and easy process overall. 

Shortly after I received my pump supplies I was then contacted by an Omnipod Rep/Trainer to set up training to set up my new pump. The pump trainer sat with me and set up the PDM with settings tailored to my insulin needs. Since then I have changed almost everything she had set, there was a lot of trial and error to find out what works better for me on the pump. Normally the DR sets you on the lower side of the pump when you start, to avoid low blood sauger.  My appointment took about an hour since I read everything beforehand in the handbook.  

Things I liked 

No tubing, I honestly would forget I had it on me unless I placed it on my outer upper arm and hit every doorway. I loved that I could decorate the pods with different stickers. Very easy to use, basically fill the pod, confirm everything on the PDM, stick it on, and go.

You can go swimming or shower without having to worry about disconnecting and remembering to reconnect. Your pod’s info shows on your phone as long as it is nearby.

I never had a problem keeping the PDM with me, it was no different than carrying my phone with me. I hardly had a failed pod.

Things I did not like 

At times the design of the pods could be a little bulky. You only get one cannula length. Both Fat and protein hit me very hard if I have a meal that's high in both, and end up with high blood sauger. The Omnipod Dash just couldn't keep up with me and I would consistently be chasing high-blood saugers.  

Final thoughts

 It’s a great pump that's for sure. I did exactly what it was programmed to do, that is to deliver a constant supply of basal background insulin 24/7. But since it does not talk to Dexcom it just doesn't work for me. Now that the Omnipod 5 has been FDA-approved and works with Dexcom it works better for me. Which I love!

7 Favorites for Summer

As the official start of summer approaches, I can't help but feel excited about the prospect of warmer days and longer nights. This summer, I've discovered some new favorite staples that I believe are worth sharing.

Pomifrea 

First on my list is Pomifera, a healing body oil that I fell in love with earlier this year. This incredible oil does wonders for dry skin, and I use it religiously after every shower, as well as after changing my Dexcom (Continuous Glucose Monitor) and Omnipod/insulin pump.

Omnipod & Dexcom Speaking of which, these two devices have been absolute game-changers for me when it comes to blood sugar control. Dexcom, in particular, has been a lifesaver as it stays attached to me for a full 10 days, reading my blood sugar levels continuously and displaying them on my phone. Meanwhile, Omnipod has been a great tool for better management, although there was a bit of a learning curve at first. However, I've found that it's even better now that it can micro-manage in the background and talk to Dexcom. It can even help fix high blood sugar and prevent low blood sugar on its own, which is amazing!

Biker shorts Apart from these health-related staples, I also discovered these biker shorts for summer, and they have since become my go-to for comfort. Not only are they super comfy, but they also have pockets on both legs, which was perfect for carrying my phone and insulin pump. 

Twitch My newfound love for streaming games on Twitch. I started streaming Animal Crossing for fun this year, and I absolutely love it. I've since expanded to other games like The Sims 4 and have enjoyed doing dream tours or decorating my island. Although I don't have a set schedule yet, not sure if I will have a set schedule. Sometimes, I even stream dream tours on Animal Crossing with my niece, which is always a fun bonding experience.

Dupe LV Checkered Bag was a great addition to my collection, providing ample space to throw everything in without the hefty price tag.

4 Pieces Basic Crop Tank Tops Last but not least, theses basic crop tank tops are another staple for summer for me. They come in many colors, and I loved how they fit as they were true to size. They were perfect for those hot summer days when I wanted to look cute but stay cool.

Overall, these staples are perfect for summer, and I hope they can be for others.