Pump Start Clinic
Pump Start Clinic at Diabetes SA!
For many people living with type 1 diabetes, insulin pump therapy can be life-changing, offering greater flexibility, improved quality of life, and more precise glucose management without increasing hypoglycaemia.
We are excited to launch our Pump Start Clinic, providing a convenient way to find out more about insulin pump options and determine a plan to suit your needs.
Our Credentialled Diabetes Educators will work with you and your doctor (endocrinologist or GP) to develop a tailored plan for you and your lifestyle.
We can help with:
- Learning about insulin pump therapy and whether it is right for you
- Understanding insulin pump device options available in Australia
- Starting insulin pump therapy for the first time
- Upgrading your existing insulin pump
Our insulin pump clinic involves a structured series of appointments designed to help you get the most out of your diabetes technology and feel confident and comfortable with your devices.
What is involved?
- An initial preparation appointment with a Credentialled Diabetes Educator to discuss device options, costs and ordering. The diabetes educator will work with your endocrinologist (or GP) to determine appropriate insulin pump settings ahead of your pump start appointment.
- Optional preparation appointment with an Accredited Practising Dietitian to review carbohydrate counting skills, tools and ratios.
- A pump start training appointment; this takes 3-4 hours and involves the initial setup of your insulin pump and practical education to set you up for success with your chosen insulin pump.
- A follow up appointment one week after your pump start to review progress and complete any additional education required.
- A follow up appointment one month after your pump start to review progress.
Specific timeframes and appointments may vary depending on individual needs and circumstances. Pump upgrades may require less time and fewer appointments. Following your appointment, our diabetes educators are available for troubleshooting as required during standard business hours. Ongoing follow up in our standard clinic is available once you have completed your pump start.
What is the cost?
The pump start training appointment is provided at no cost to the patient. Standard consult fees apply for the initial appointment and any follow up appointments. Medicare rebates may be available with a valid GP Chronic Condition Management Plan.
Insulin pumps are covered under private health insurance. Speak with your insurer to see if you are covered. Most pump companies will provide a loan pump while you wait out any waiting periods if you need to take out private health insurance or increase your current level of cover. To discuss costs and funding options contact us to speak with a diabetes educator.
FREE Tech Check Appointment
If you’re new to diabetes technology or insulin pumps and not sure what is right for you, book in for our FREE 30-minute Tech Check appointment. This is a quick review of your current management, goals and lifestyle to determine the technology options that may best suit your needs and develop an individualised plan.
To find out more or to book email healthservices@diabetessa.com.au or call us on 1300 198 204 to speak with one of our Credentialled Diabetes Educators.
