Lois Larson
For people with diabetes, travelling with an insulin pump and continuous glucose monitor (CGM) raises a lot of questions. One common concern is whether insulin pumps can be worn through airport security screening, metal detectors, X-ray machines, and full-body scanners. The Omnipod insulin pump, for example, is designed to be worn at all times, but it is unclear whether it needs to be removed before passing through airport security. While some sources suggest that the Omnipod can safely pass through metal detectors and X-ray machines, others recommend requesting a hand check or pat down instead of going through advanced imaging technology (AIT) scanners or X-ray machines. It is always a good idea to notify security personnel when going through airport security screening and to follow the guidelines set by the manufacturer and the airport security authorities.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can Omnipod be worn through metal detectors? | Yes |
| Can Omnipod be worn through X-ray machines? | Yes |
| Can Omnipod be worn through full-body scanners? | Yes |
| Should users notify security personnel? | Yes |
| Should users consent to hand checks? | Yes |
| Should users disclose that they are wearing the pod during a "pat down"? | Yes |
| Should the reader be powered off during a flight? | Yes |
| Can the strip port on the reader be used to take blood glucose or ketone readings during a flight? | Yes |
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What You'll Learn
- Omnipod users can wear their pod through metal detectors, x-ray machines, and full-body scanners
- It is recommended to notify security personnel that you are wearing the pod
- If selected for a pat down, disclose that you are wearing the pod
- The PDM can be put through the X-ray
- The Omnipod DASH System is safe to use at atmospheric pressures in airplane cabins
Omnipod users can wear their pod through metal detectors, x-ray machines, and full-body scanners
If you use an Omnipod, you can wear your pod through metal detectors, x-ray machines, and full-body scanners at the airport. However, Insulet, the manufacturer of the Omnipod, recommends that you inform security personnel that you are wearing the pod if you are selected for a pat-down search.
The Omnipod DASH System is safe to use at the atmospheric pressures typically found in airplane cabins during flight. However, it is important to remember that the atmospheric pressure in an airplane cabin can change during the flight, which may affect the pod's insulin delivery. Therefore, it is recommended to check your blood glucose frequently while flying.
Additionally, it is advised to set your PDM to airplane mode while you are flying. This will turn off the PDM's Wi-Fi connectivity but will not affect your ability to communicate with your pod and glucometer.
Some people have reported that they have had no issues sending their Omnipod through airport security scanners and x-ray machines. However, others have reported that their Omnipod was caught by the scanner and they had to undergo additional security checks, such as a hand inspection or swabbing for explosive residue. Therefore, it is recommended to notify security personnel that you are wearing a pod and to be prepared for additional security measures.
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It is recommended to notify security personnel that you are wearing the pod
If you are wearing an Omnipod, it is recommended to notify security personnel that you are wearing the pod. This is because the pod may be detected by airport security scanners and you may be stopped for additional screening. For example, some people have reported being stopped and asked to undergo a pat-down or hand check for explosive residue. By notifying security personnel in advance, you can ensure that they are aware of your medical device and can make any necessary accommodations.
Additionally, it is important to note that while Omnipod users can wear their pods through metal detectors, x-ray machines, and full-body scanners, it is always a good idea to inform security staff when passing through airport security. This is to ensure that any potential issues or concerns are addressed promptly and efficiently. It is also recommended to carry a TSA card, which can be handed to the security officer, making the process much easier.
Furthermore, it is worth mentioning that while the Omnipod DASH™ System is considered safe to use at atmospheric pressures typically found in airplane cabins during flight, the atmospheric pressure in an airplane cabin can change during the flight, which may affect the pod's insulin delivery. Therefore, it is crucial to frequently check your blood glucose levels while flying. Additionally, it is recommended to set your PDM to airplane mode while flying, as this will turn off the device's Wi-Fi connectivity without interrupting its communication with your pod and glucometer.
In conclusion, while it is not mandatory to notify security personnel about your Omnipod, doing so is advisable. This simple act of communication can help ensure a smoother and less stressful airport security experience. It also allows security staff to make any necessary arrangements to accommodate your medical needs. By being proactive and informative, you can help ensure a safe and comfortable journey for yourself and others.
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If selected for a pat down, disclose that you are wearing the pod
If you are selected for a pat down during airport security screening, it is important to disclose that you are wearing the Omnipod. This is because the pod may be detected as a foreign object by security personnel, which could lead to further questioning or delays. By disclosing the presence of the pod, you can help the security personnel understand the situation and facilitate a smoother screening process.
When disclosing that you are wearing the pod, it is recommended to use clear and concise language. You can simply state that you are wearing a medical device, specifically the Omnipod, and provide any necessary documentation or information. It is also a good practice to point to the location of the pod on your body, so that the security personnel know exactly what they are checking for during the pat down.
In some cases, security personnel may ask additional questions or request further information about the pod. It is advisable to cooperate and provide as much information as needed to address their concerns. Remember to remain calm and polite throughout the interaction, as the security personnel are performing their duties to ensure the safety of all passengers.
Additionally, it is worth noting that while the Omnipod can generally be worn through airport security scanners and metal detectors without issues, some users have reported varying experiences. Some users have reported that their pods were not detected during security screening, while others have mentioned instances where they were asked to undergo additional checks, such as swab tests for explosive residue. These additional checks are standard procedures and should not cause any harm to the pod or disrupt your insulin delivery.
To summarize, if you are selected for a pat down during airport security screening, it is important to disclose that you are wearing the Omnipod. Be prepared to provide clear information and cooperate with any additional requests from security personnel. Remember that their priority is to ensure the safety of all passengers, and by working together, you can ensure a smooth and efficient screening process for everyone involved.
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The PDM can be put through the X-ray
The PDM can be put through an X-ray machine at airport security. However, it is recommended that you notify security personnel that you are wearing the pod. If you are selected for a "pat down", disclose that you are wearing the pod. You can also print out a TSA card to hand to the security officer.
If you are using the Omnipod DASH™ or Omnipod 5 System, it is safe to use at atmospheric pressures typically found in airplane cabins during flight. However, the atmospheric pressure in an airplane cabin can change during flight, which may affect the Pod’s insulin delivery. Therefore, it is recommended to check your blood glucose frequently while flying.
It is also important to check your airline’s policy regarding the use of Personal Medical Electronic Devices that communicate using Bluetooth technology. If it is allowed, set your PDM to airplane mode while you are flying. You will still be able to communicate with your Pod and glucometer.
Some people have reported that they have walked through airport X-ray scanners with their Omnipod and have not had any issues. However, others have reported that their Omnipod was caught by the scanner and they had to be tested for explosive material. Therefore, it is recommended to notify security personnel and have your PDM and pod hand-checked if possible.
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The Omnipod DASH System is safe to use at atmospheric pressures in airplane cabins
If you are an Omnipod user, you need not worry about airport security screenings and scanners. The Omnipod DASH System is safe and can be worn through metal detectors, X-ray machines, and full-body scanners. The pods and Personal Diabetes Managers (PDMs) can safely pass through airport X-ray machines. The official website of Omnipod DASH® mentions that the pods are safe to be worn through airport scanners.
The Omnipod DASH System is safe to use at atmospheric pressures typically found in airplane cabins during flight. The system can be used at atmospheric pressures as low as 700 hPa, which is lower than the typical pressure in airplane cabins. However, it is important to remember that the atmospheric pressure in an airplane cabin can change during the flight, which may affect the pod's insulin delivery. Therefore, it is recommended to frequently check your blood glucose while flying.
When going through airport security, it is advisable to notify security personnel that you are wearing the pod. If you are selected for a ""pat down", disclose that you are wearing the pod. In some cases, security personnel may ask you to consent to swab your hands and the pod for explosive residue.
Additionally, once you are on the plane, check your airline's policy regarding the use of Personal Medical Electronic Devices (PMEDs) that communicate using Bluetooth technology. If allowed, set your PDM to airplane mode, which will turn off the PDM's Wi-Fi connectivity while still allowing communication with your pod and glucometer.
By following these guidelines, Omnipod users can confidently navigate airport security screenings and ensure the safe use of their Omnipod DASH System during their flight.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is safe to wear your Omnipod through airport scanners, including metal detectors, X-ray machines, and full-body scanners. However, some users have reported that their pods were not detected and they had to undergo additional security checks.
It is recommended to notify security personnel that you are wearing a medical device. You can also request a hand check or "pat down" instead of going through a body scanner.
Before boarding the plane, check your airline's policy regarding the use of Personal Medical Electronic Devices (PMEDs) that use Bluetooth technology. If allowed, set your PMD to airplane mode during the flight. Additionally, remember to check your blood glucose frequently while flying, as changes in cabin pressure may affect insulin delivery.
