Insulin pumps and consumables
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Two funded brands of pumps
PHARMAC funds these two insulin pumps for people who meet the funding criteria:
- Tandem t:slim X2 pump and consumables(external link)
- MiniMed 640G
Note: PHARMAC currently only funds one pump per patient every 4 years.
2018 insulin pump changes
In 2018 PHARMAC funded 2 new brands of insulin pumps. We expect most people moved to one of the new funded pumps by 1 October 2019.
Still have a funded Paradigm 552 or 722 insulin pump?
When the warranty expires on your Paradigm pump, you’ll be able to choose between the 2 currently funded pumps.
Was your funded Animas Vibe replaced by a Tandem t:slim X2?
When the warranty expires on your new Tandem t:slim X2, you'll be able to choose a new Tandem t:slim X2 or a Minimed 640G.
Due to contractual reasons, your new Tandem inherited the warranty date from your original Animas Vibe. This means it might not be 4 years old when it needs to be replaced.
Who’s eligible for a funded insulin pump?
A specialist or nurse practitioner must apply for approval to prescribe a funded insulin pump. There are a range of funding criteria people need to meet. The criteria are listed in the Special Authority form. Your health care professional will know best if you meet the criteria for a funded insulin pump.
Insulin pump consumables
If someone is eligible for a funded insulin pump, they are also eligible for funded consumables. PHARMAC funds up to 13 sets of consumables each year (one set every 4 weeks).
If there are exceptional clinical circumstances that mean a patient requires more than 13 sets, a prescriber can request a Special Authority waiver.
Who to contact
If you have any questions about funding for insulin pumps:
- email: enquiry@pharmac.govt.nz
- phone: 0800 660 050