Protocol for outpatient screening and initiation of continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion therapy: impact on cost and quality.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of a screening protocol in identifying subjects who would initiate continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) and continue the therapy for at least 2 1/2 years.

Methods: One hundred four subjects were recruited to participate in a screening protocol involving a mock trial of insulin pump use. Participants who initiated CSII were followed for 2 1/2 years; those deemed ill suited for CSII used multiple insulin injections.