Value and Sustainability of Semi-reusable Patch Pump Therapy in Routine Care: A Prospective Multicentre Study

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology and Diabetes Management
• Medical Device Technology
• Health Economics and Environmental Sustainability

Background:

• Patch insulin pumps are often categorized together, but disposable and reusable designs have distinct cost and waste profiles.
• Evaluating real-world outcomes of semi-reusable tubeless insulin pumps (SR-TIP) is crucial for understanding their value.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the clinical, pharmacoeconomic, and environmental impact of a semi-reusable tubeless insulin pump (Microtech Equil™).
• To compare its performance against fully disposable patch pumps in real-world diabetes care.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, multicentre, open-label study followed adults with type 1 or type 2 diabetes for 3 months.
• Primary endpoints included HbA1c non-inferiority and changes in hypoglycemic event frequency.
• Secondary endpoints covered safety, patient-reported outcomes, costs, and waste generation.

Main Results:

• HbA1c levels remained non-inferior in both continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) and multiple daily injections (MDI) groups.
• Hypoglycemic events significantly decreased (45% in CSII, 86% in MDI).
• Monthly disposable costs reduced by €108.6, and electronic waste was minimized with the semi-reusable design.

Conclusions:

• Semi-reusable tubeless pumps offer comparable glycemic control to disposable patch pumps while reducing hypoglycemia and costs.
• This technology presents a sustainable and value-based option for diabetes management.
• Reduced electronic waste highlights the environmental benefits of reusable diabetes devices.