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

Abstract

Background:

Patch insulin pumps are often treated as a single class, although fully disposable and semi-reusable designs differ in cost and waste. We evaluated real-world clinical, pharmacoeconomic, and environmental outcomes of a semi-reusable tubeless insulin pump (Microtech Equil™, referred as SR-TIP).

Methods:

Prospective, multicentre, open-label real-world study in adults with type 1 or type 2 diabetes transitioning from continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) or multiple daily injections (MDI). Follow-up was 3 months. Primary endpoints were HbA1c non-inferiority and change in hypoglycaemic event frequency. Secondary endpoints included safety, device deficiencies, patient-reported outcomes (Diabetes Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire, Device Assessment Questionnaire), monthly disposable treatment costs, and waste based on disposable component counts and material composition.

Results:

Ninety-seven participants completed follow-up (CSII n = 79; MDI n = 18). HbA1c changes met non-inferiority criteria in both groups. Hypoglycaemic events decreased by 45% in CSII users and 86% in MDI users. Device-related adverse events were infrequent and mainly mild. Among participants previously using fully disposable tubeless pumps, mean monthly disposable treatment costs decreased by €108.6 (p < 0.001). The semi-reusable architecture eliminated routine disposal of batteries/electronic components and reduced overall waste.

Conclusions:

In routine care, a semi-reusable tubeless pump maintained glycaemic control while reducing hypoglycaemia and disposable costs versus fully disposable patch pumps, with measurable reductions in electronic waste. These data support value-based, sustainable diabetes technology adoption.