Insulin Pump Therapy
An insulin pump is a small wearable device that delivers rapid-acting insulin continuously through a thin tube placed under the skin. It offers more precise, flexible control than injections, and Dr Kasi Subbiah holds dedicated training (YDEF Insulin Pump Course) and has run NHS insulin pump services across multiple trusts.
Who might benefit?
- Frequent or severe hypoglycaemia or reduced awareness of low blood sugar
- Significant swings in blood glucose that are hard to control with injections
- Need for more flexibility around meals, exercise, work, or shift patterns
- Pregnancy planning or antenatal diabetes management
What we offer
- Pump suitability assessment
- Independent device advice unaffected by NHS funding restrictions
- Ongoing pump therapy support and optimisation
How pump therapy works
An insulin pump delivers rapid-acting insulin continuously through a cannula, with additional doses for meals and corrections. Safe use depends on suitable basal rates, carbohydrate ratios, correction factors, active-insulin settings and regular review of glucose and pump data.
Training, pump failure and ketone safety
Pump users need structured education, infusion-site care, ketone-testing supplies and a written backup plan using insulin pens or syringes. Because pumps do not usually contain long-acting insulin, interrupted delivery can cause glucose and ketones to rise quickly. Vomiting, significant ketones, rapid breathing, abdominal pain or drowsiness requires urgent medical assessment.
UK-wide video pump review
Pump downloads, continuous-glucose-monitoring reports, hypoglycaemia and settings can often be reviewed securely by video. Starting a new pump and some technical training may require the responsible local diabetes team or device provider.