This is an update of the article I posted in August 2024, and now includes cost, access information, and compatible CGMs.
Omnipod 5 will be available in Australia from 17 March, 2025. You can get the process started with your diabetes educator right now.
Long have we type 1s had to choose between two very important features: tubeless and an algorithm. For me, I've chosen to prioritise the algorithm. I love the brainspace that I get back knowing that my pump will catch me (to a certain extent) when I under/over-bolus, or am slightly more or less active than usual. But for a lot of people, the annoyance of tangled tubing in bed, getting it caught on door handles and kitchen drawers, and having to disconnect and reconnect on beach days is just all too much. And so they've opted for tubeless and no algorithm with the Omnipod DASH. Well, from March 17, Omnipod 5 will be available, which gives you both the physical freedom of tubeless with the peace of mind of an algorithm!
The Headline Features of Omnipod 5
1. Automated Insulin Delivery with SmartAdjust™ Algorithm
The OmniPod 5 introduces the SmartAdjust™ algorithm, a major upgrade from the OmniPod DASH. This algorithm lives directly on the pod and works in real-time. It communicates continuously with a compatible Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM), predicting your glucose levels 60 minutes ahead. Based on this data, it adjusts insulin delivery automatically—either increasing, decreasing, or pausing it to try and keep you in your target range. In theory, this should mean less high and lows to worry about... and a better night's sleep!
When you set up the pump, you give it your target blood glucose (Target BG). It's important to know is that this is the only setting you can change which will impact how the algorithm behaves. You can choose targets of 6.1, 6.7, 7.2, 7.8 or 8.3, and you can have up to 8 different targets programmed throughout your day.
During setup you'll also give it Correct Above values, Insulin to Carb ratio, Correction Factor, Duration of Insulin action, and Reverse Correction. These are used for the Smart Bolus calculator, but do not affect any automatic actions taken by the algorithm (again, only the Target BG affects this).
You do program in basal rates, but these are only used in manual mode, or when the pod has lost connection with the CGM for an extended period of time. Once automation kicks in (generally this happens when you start your second pod) it disregards the original basal rates, and instead uses the Adaptive Basal Rate that it has calculated for you. It will continue to update this with each pod change as it learns you. Anecdotally, we're hearing from overseas users that the first week or so is a bit rocky, while the algorithm learns you. But after 1–2 weeks, that settles down.
2. Cloud Connectivity
Also new with the release of Omnipod 5 will be its cloud capability. Unlike the Omnipod DASH, which doesn’t upload data to any online logbook, the Omnipod 5 will automatically upload your data to the cloud. This not only simplifies data sharing with your healthcare team but also provides you with valuable insights into your diabetes management. No more hunting for that specific cable the night before your appointment to upload your data.
3. The Controller
Although you still adjust the settings of Omnipod 5 through a proprietary controller, (no phone app yet!) the controller doesn’t have to be within reach all the time. The algorithm runs on the pod itself, and operates independently, meaning you can enjoy activities like swimming without needing to carry the controller. The pod continues to receive CGM updates directly, staying in “auto mode” and working to keep you in range even when the controller is out of range - in another room, stuffed in your bag back on the beach etc. For those that love a long day on the beach, this means you don't have to get out of the water every hour to reconnect and deliver more insulin. You will need the controller when you want to deliver a bolus or change settings.
In the US, they've recently released a smartphone app for Omnipod 5, which means that users of the system don't have to carry an extra device. It's a pity that we're not getting this app with the launch here in Australia, and I'm not about to put a prediction on when we might see it. If you're making your decision about switching to Omnipod 5 based on that, I'd assume that it's least 2 years away...
CGM Compatibility
Since forever, we've been asking for more choice. Well, that's exactly what we're getting here. Insulet (the makers of Omnipod) have confirmed that Omnipod 5 will be compatible with Dexcom G6, G7 and the soon-to-be-released Freestyle Libre 2 Plus. At the time of writing, we still don't have definitive release dates for the G7 or Libre 2 Plus, but the rumours are consistently "soon!".
What's happening to Omnipod DASH?
Insulet have confirmed that DASH is not going anywhere. So if you're not ready to hand over control to The Machine just yet, you can continue to use Omnipod DASH for the forseeable future. This is also great news for those that are using DASH to do DIY Looping. (If you're interested in DIY Looping, check out this article).
Can You Trial Omnipod 5 before committing for four years?
Because every pod is essentially a new pump, podding does have the advantage of being able to buy a small supply (say 1 or 2 months' worth) to see if you like it before you commit your hard-earned private health insurance.
Insulet have previously had promotions of $90 for a 90-day supply of pods. Hopefully we see promotions like that return, but we haven't anything official yet.
Pricing, and how to get started with Omnipod 5
Even if you're transitioning from Omnipod DASH, you'll still need to see your diabetes educator to make the switch, and everyone's transition will be slightly different. Below is the more detailed information for each scenario, with next steps and pricing.
If that all looks too hard and you'd just like someone to tell you what you need to do, give the Family Centre a call and we can talk you through it: 08 9446 6446
Current Omnipod DASH User Accessing via Private Health
You do not need to wait until your private health warranty period is up to transition from Dash to 5. Upgrading from Dash to 5 will not restart your warranty.
To access Omnipod 5 you will need:
A letter of clinical need from your Credentialled Diabetes Educator
A completed order form with sign off from yourself and your Credentialled Diabetes Educator
Pay a one-time fee of $249 to Insulet for the upgrade from the PDM to the Controller
A pump start training session with your Credentialled Diabetes Educator
You will continue to access pods via NDSS for the current monthly price of $31.80.
Current Omnipod DASH User and Self-Funding
To access Omnipod 5 you will need:
A letter of clinical need from your Credentialled Diabetes Educator
A completed order form with sign off from yourself and your Credentialled Diabetes Educator
Enter a new contract with Insulet for $185/month access fee
A pump start training session with your Credentialled Diabetes Educator
You will continue to access pods via NDSS for the current monthly price of $31.80.
Completely New to Omnipod and Accessing via Private Health
Please note, as with any new pump start, your educator will require you to have a certain level of pre-pump education. You may need a number of clinic sessions prior to your pump start to adequately prepare you.
To access Omnipod 5 you will need:
A letter of clinical need from your Endocrinologist – Private Health Companies stipulate this and we cannot place an order without it.
A completed order form with sign off from yourself and your Credentialled Diabetes Educator
A pump start training session with your Credentialled Diabetes Educator
You will then access pods via NDSS for the current monthly price of $31.80.
Completely New to Omnipod and Self-Funding
Please note, as with any new pump start, your educator will require you to have a certain level of pre-pump education. You may need a number of clinic sessions prior to your pump start to adequately prepare you.
To access Omnipod 5 you will need:
A letter of clinical need from your GP
A completed order form with sign off from yourself and your Credentialled Diabetes Educator
Enter a contract with Insulet for $185/month access fee
A pump start training session with your Credentialled Diabetes Educator
You will then access pods via NDSS for the current monthly price of $31.80.
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