Searched and couldn’t find the answer to this question, so here it is:
How does one dispose of an old insulin pump in an environmentally responsible way? Who will take them? Electronics recyclers, like BestBuy or Goodwill?
Explanation: I’m writing about the actual insulin pump, not the supplies like infusion sets and reservoirs. The question also applies to old OmniPod PDMs (Personal Diabetes Manager). The pumps and PDMs contain circuit boards and the displays can contain mercury and arsenic, but other than competitive trade-in programs I haven’t found any of the still-in-business pump makers who offer recycling of older pumps.
Supplies can often be donated to local diabetes camps, and camp administrators/medical personnel ensure they go to appropriate folks.
Contact local ADA for options in your area.
If you really think they’re beyond use to anyone, check with your county. Ours offers electronic recycling events twice a year or so. For some reason, they charge to take TVs, but everything else is free and goes to a place that breaks them down into reusable parts.
You can either put it in the drawer I have it all my old diabetes stuff, or you can put it in electronics waste… most cities have them every few months or so.
You can either put it in the drawer I have it all my old diabetes stuff, or you can put it in electronics waste… most cities have them every few months or so.
How big is your “D” drawer? Inquiring minds want to know.
I have an “M” drawer and a “D” drawer for medicines and diabetic supplies. If I need more drawers for diabetic stuff, I’ll have to relocate my cycling and workout clothes.
I actually have a kitchen drawer and two cardboard boxes in my house and 2 more boxes in my garage.
It’s an illness. I just can’t get rid of some stuff that I know I will never need. Not until I throw it out that is.
Just from being in the Omnipod Facebook group, I know there are people who need the old style PDM because for some reason they are not able to get them for no charge from anyone.