In many jurisdictions, the resale of insulin pumps is strictly regulated because they are prescription medical devices.
For many living with diabetes, the primary motivation for seeking a used pump is financial. New insulin pumps and their associated supplies are often prohibitively expensive without robust insurance, creating a "black market" or informal exchange.
The acquisition of a used insulin pump is a complex decision driven by the high cost of new devices and gaps in insurance coverage. While second-hand devices offer a more accessible pathway to life-saving technology, they introduce significant legal, clinical, and safety risks that users must carefully weigh. The Accessibility Challenge and Economic Motivations
: Organizations like Pump Avenue Foundation and Insulin For Life USA work to bridge this gap by vetting and redistributing donated, unexpired supplies to those in need. Legal and Regulatory Risks
: In regions where insurance does not fully cover pump therapy, families may sell devices to recover costs or help others who cannot afford new models.
Insulin pump risks and benefits: a clinical appraisal ... - PubMed