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Alert: Product and Safety Notice
Introducing Convenient Mobile Access To Your Pump And CGM Data With MiniMed Connect
Today we’re sharing some great news for people with diabetes, and their care partners and healthcare teams: we’ve receive FDA clearance of MiniMed Connect! This is the first product to allow people with diabetes to discreetly and conveniently view their insulin pump and CGM data on a smartphone.
MiniMed Connect also provides remote monitoring and text notifications for loved ones and more convenient access to more comprehensive data for healthcare teams. Many of you – whether you’re a person with diabetes, a d-mom, d-dad or other care partner – have told us how important it is for you to have remote access and notifications to your diabetes data. This is why we’re so thrilled to share this news with you today.
Designed to provide a mobile connection to your critical diabetes information, MiniMed Connect is compatible with the MiniMed 530G system and MiniMed Revel system. It consists of three parts:
- A small uploader which easily fits on a keychain or in a pocket
- A smartphone app for the person with diabetes
- A web display on desktop or mobile devices for care partners
For People with Diabetes
A mobile phone app that shows important insulin pump and CGM information, including:
- Current sensor glucose reading with high and low limits, shown on a graph (3, 6, 12, and 24-hour views)
- Time to next calibration
- Sensor Life
- Active Insulin
- Reservoir Volume
- Pump Battery
- Uploader Battery
- System Connectivity
For Loved Ones and Care Partners
- Real-time sensor glucose values through a new “Connect” tab in CareLink, which can be accessed from most smartphones, tablets, or computers at any time (as long as they have Internet connectivity)
- Preset text notifications delivered to your phone when the person with diabetes’ sensor glucose values go too high or too low, or when an alarm on the pump isn’t cleared, providing you with peace of mind
For Your Healthcare Team
- More convenient access to more comprehensive patient data so they can adjust care plans
- With your permission, your healthcare team can access:
- Real-time sensor glucose information
- Daily uploads of historical pump data
Even better news is that this is just the beginning. MiniMed Connect is the latest example of how we are moving beyond pumps and sensors to offer more convenient and discrete diabetes management options for people with diabetes, care partners, and healthcare providers to make managing diabetes easier. With MiniMed Connect, an entire support team can have access to critical diabetes data to inform the decisions that will help people with diabetes have better outcomes to achieve greater freedom and better health.
MiniMed Connect smartphone app will initially be available with iOS mobile devices. In addition, Samsung is working with us to develop apps for Android for an optimal experience on Samsung mobile devices. We expect to be ready to ship MiniMed Connect this Fall.
Visit www.medtronicdiabetes.com/minimed-connect to sign up to be among the first to receive notifications when the product is available.
We hope you’re as excited as we are about MiniMed Connect! As always, we would like to hear what you think so be sure to tell us in the comments!
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
MiniMed Connect is intended to provide a secondary display of CGM and insulin pump information on a suitable consumer electronic device to care partners and users of a MiniMed 530G system or Paradigm REAL-Time Revel system for the purposes of passive monitoring.
MiniMed Connect is not intended to replace the primary display of continuous glucose monitoring and insulin pump information on the primary display device. All therapy decisions should be based on blood glucose measurements obtained from a blood glucose meter. MiniMed Connect is not intended to receive information directly from the sensor or transmitter of the sensor-augmented pump system.
Tags: CareLink, continuous glucose monitoring, diabetes data, insulin pump, MiniMed 530G, MiniMed Connect, MiniMed Revel
About Author
Editorial Team
LOOP Blog Editorial TeamAt Medtronic Diabetes our vision is to transform diabetes care together for greater freedom and better health. Each word in that statement is important – including the one “together”. We’re a group of passionate people working hard to make a big positive impact on the lives of those with diabetes. But we can’t do it alone. Collaboration is key. With healthcare providers, academic institutions, non-profits and other companies. And, most importantly, with you – the people who live with diabetes every day.
You have got to get these sensors covered by medicare. They are useless to this whole population.
Correct.
Charles, please know that we are continuing to actively work with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid services to establish coverage consistent with other healthcare insurance companies. We suggest you talk with your health care team, so they can advocate for CGM coverage on your behalf, write your legislature, and contact your local JDRF chapter to see how you can get involved with advocating for CGM coverage. You can find out more here: http://www.loop-blog.com/update-expanding-access-cgm-medicare/.
how can and when can we get these?
Hi Kelli, MiniMed Connect is expected to be shipped this Fall. In the meantime, people with diabetes can visit http://www.medtronicdiabetes.com/minimed-connect to sign up to be notified when the product is available.
How close do u have to be to the connect divice for this all to work?if i put the connect on the key chain but im wearing my pump and im upstairs in my house will it still work?
Melissa, the uploader will need to be within 6 feet of your pump, similar to the range between your pump, sensor and transmitter.
How do I get one?
Dan, you can visit http://www.medtronicdiabetes.com/minimed-connect to sign up to be notified when the product is available.
When this will be available in EU
Best Regards
Pslab, our plan is to have MiniMed Connect available in other countries in the near future, but we’re still working out where and when this will happen.
I would like to see other platforms have thus app also such as BlackBerry and others. Some people use other devices other than Apple and Android devices so you very conveniently leave us out if this great advancement. I feel we are discriminated against or we are forced to use devices we really do not like fir whatever reason and thus deprived of these wonderful advancements. I choose to use BlackBerry for many reasons not the least if which us it’s security superiority over other devices and I think security is very important and even more so with an app such as this.
Henry, I’m sorry to hear you’re frustrated. MiniMed Connect is available other platforms, such as a computer, where care partners can view your pump and sensor information through the CareLink website. These must be connected to the internet to receive information. Medtronic takes the safety of our customers and the security of our devices very seriously. The data communications between the devices are encrypted. Our development team has taken extra measures to ensure the system works properly. Personal health information that is collected will adhere to all standards of data protection, including HIPAA and our own privacy policy.
Exciting news!!! Looking forward to it’s release in the Fall.
We’re excited too, Karen!
Please notify me when this one becomes available or any more information. I’m already a user of Medtronic pump & sensor patient/user. Thanks
Hi Kay. Please visit http://www.medtronicdiabetes.com/minimed-connect for more information and to sign up to be notified when the product is available.
As a mother of 3 Type 1 Diabetic daughters I would live for my girls to have this technology. My oldest daughter is going to college out of state. For the first time in 12 years our family experienced crisis, my oldest wasn’t feeling well and took a nap…her boyfriend tried to wake her..she wouldn’t wake-up, she was in a diabetic coma and need emergency care to save her life. She lucky that someone checked on her that day because her Medtronic pump did not know her blood sugar was at 32. We purchased 4 insulin pumps from Medtronic but trying to get some insurance company’s to pay from continuous glucose monitoring is a challenge. Within the next 6 month I will be looking at all the insulin pumps currently on market for youngest daughter and the technology that is offered with that pump. I only have 4 daughters, right now 3 have T1D and I have no guarantee what will happen with my youngest daughter.. 50/50 chance she to will be T1D. This technology definitely gives parents comfort and ability to allow their children to participate in more activities as well as go off with friends. It allows for a T1D who lives alone peace of mind that someone will get help for them when they need it….. my concern is… and many groups discuss this on Facebook (but not just there) the excessive cost of supplies…It is horrible when you see a T1D become unhealthy because financial circumstances have changed and the cost of the supplies are ridiculous…. or even T1D running the risk of infection or loss of limb trying to extend supplies because of outrageous costs.. every T1D deserves the best care and the best technology and chance at decent and healthy life…no one chooses to have this disease!!! Just like no one chooses to have breast cancer…therefore…to it has been disgusting to see the conflict with the issue with patented and monopolization of the BRACCA Test, a test that can save a woman life…. big business….corporate economics sometimes end up blurring the big picture……human lives…quality of lives. I understand funds have to come in to cover expenses and costs…WHAT ITEMS OR SUPPLIES, COST..HOW IN INFLATED IS THE COST? ESPECIALLY CONSIDERING THE LAST 2-3 YEARS AND RECALLS…. THE STANDARDS ARE DEFINITELY DROPPING YET THE PRICES ARE RISING!!!
Bridget, I’m sorry to hear about your daughter, but glad she’s okay. Insulin pump therapy is affordable for many families. Pumps and supplies are typically covered by insurance and we contract with more than 600 health plans nationwide, which is very comprehensive. In addition, we offer payment plans and financial assistance, and are actively working with patient organizations, professional societies and other companies to advocate for people with diabetes to have access to the latest technology. Please let me know if you have any questions, and I’d be more than happy to connect you with someone from my team.
What do we have to purchase? How much will it cost? Will it be covered by Medicare? Will phones other than Samsung work with the uploader? How will people who have a pump learn when this device is available? Thank You!
Great questions, Andy. You purchase the MiniMed Connect uploader for $199, and the app is free. Insurance will not cover this item. However, you may be able to use you flexible spending account (FSA) to buy the uploader. Some FSAs will differ, so I encourage you to check your policies. For the person with diabetes, the smartphone app will initially be available with iOS devices. Samsung is working with Medtronic to also develop apps for Android and develop mobile applications optimized experiences on Samsung mobile devices. MiniMed Connect will be available in the fall of 2015. Please visit http://www.medtronicdiabetes.com/minimed-connect for more information and to sign up to be notified when the product is available. Hope this helps!
Medicare needs to cover the CGM. All this new technology is great but useless to people who have Medicare.
Susan, please know that we are continuing to actively work with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid services to establish coverage consistent with other healthcare insurance companies. We suggest you talk with your health care team, so they can advocate for CGM coverage on your behalf, write your legislature, and contact your local JDRF chapter to see how you can get involved with advocating for CGM coverage. You can find out more here: http://www.loop-blog.com/update-expanding-access-cgm-medicare/.
As good as this sounds and I am a pumper, I it will most likely be cost prohibitive for most of us. I would love to be proven wrong on this point, but then you don’t mention word one about market value and Medtronic does not give anything away.
Retired- disabled and on Medicare
Hi Dennis. The MiniMed Connect device is available for $199. The smartphone app can be downloaded for free. Medtronic provides financial assistance to customers who use our products and meet certain income guidelines. Let me know if you’d like to have me connect you with someone to discuss your options.
Albeit this looks like great news on first glance, I have a bit of a problem seing the big advantage. It seems that this system is only intended to DISPLAY data. What would make for a real advantage would be features like
– controlling the insulin pump
– aggregate all diabetes-relevant data in one app and allow for reports and statistical evaluation
– import blood glucose values also from conventional meters, not just from CGM
I also wonder why that separate “uploader” device is needed. One more component that can fail due to empty batteries or bad RF signal reception. Modern security standards should make it possible that medical devices can directly be connected to mobile phones.
Of course there will always be the bad feeling of having a lethal medicine directly connected via tube to your body and in theoretical reach of the a potential hacker who can remotely, via Internet, control the motor of the pump to kill you. Or is it rather the fear of influence of software failures of the mobile phone, that could lead to bad behavior of the pump? I really like to understand these concerns better. So I’ll be grateful for answers. Thanks!
Daniel
Daniel, thank you for sharing your feedback with us. We developed this product in response to strong feedback from people with diabetes and their caregivers who have told us how important it is to be able to remotely see their pump and CGM data. The app will allow you to more conveniently and discreetly view valuable insulin pump and sensor information. However, you won’t be able to change your settings or control your pump from the app. The uploader enables the pump data signal to be converted into information that can be displayed on the mobile app. Future generations of Medtronic products will not require the uploader and will transmit automatically from the pump to the mobile device. Medtronic takes the safety of our customers and the security of our devices very seriously. The data communications between the devices are encrypted, and our development team has taken extra measures to ensure the system works properly.
How easy is this device to operate when someone has no hands only prostheses? HOw easy is it for a child to operate? Can you not invent a device that doesn’t need a phone to send the data to a home computer connected to the internet? I agree it should be available with other ‘smartphone” type devices. It would also be useful to nurses in retirement homes or chronic care facilities, I imagine.
Dianna, Care partners can view pump and sensor information through on most smartphones, tablets, or computers through the CareLink website. These must be connected to the internet to receive information. One of the benefits of MiniMed Connect is that it provides healthcare teams with more comprehensive data, and with more convenient access to their patients’ diabetes data.
ya where do i find it to look into buying it? I can’t find it anywhere!
Hi Will. MiniMed Connect will be available in the fall of 2015. Please visit http://www.medtronicdiabetes.com/minimed-connect for more information and to sign up to be notified when the product is available. Hope this helps!
Another “up sell” by minimed that insurance won’t cover.. Good luck..
Matthew, I’m sorry you feel that way. You’re correct in that insurance will not cover this item since it does not require a prescription. However, you may be able to use your flexible spending account (FSA) to buy the uploader, which is $199 and the app is free.
Other than having access to the pump info by phone,how different is this to what already is available thru the internet, I.E. Medtronic Carelink? Which already allows a person with a pump to upload the pump and CGM info to a website, which a health care pro. can read. I’m guessing anyone with the persons password can read it also.
That’s a great question, Ralph. MiniMed Connect will provide automatic daily updates of historical pump and sensor information to CareLink, which healthcare providers can access more conveniently. Currently, CareLink data must be uploaded manually via a USB connection device. The system also delivers preset text notifications to loved ones when the person with diabetes’ sensor glucose values go too high or too low, or when an alarm on the pump isn’t cleared.
This is very exciting to us as my daughter is away at college and this technology will help us be “connected” and know she is stable!!! GREAT!!!❤️
I’m so glad you’re excited as we are about MiniMed Connect, Ruth! Keep us posted on your family’s journey using the product in the future!
Outstanding ingenuity and thoughtfulness. Caregivers and family/friends connection to the diabetic is globally advantageous. That’s leadership! Very anxious to utilize.
Patrick, thank you for the kind words! We developed MiniMed Connect in response to strong feedback from people with diabetes and their caregivers who have told us how important it is to be able to remotely see their pump and CGM data. We’re looking forward to you utilizing it as well. Let us know what you think!
Will this work with the Apple Watch, or is it limited to the iPhone?
Great question, Kevin. For personal use, the MiniMed Connect mobile app will work on the latest versions of iPhone and iPod Touch. Your care partners will not need to have an iPhone or iPod Touch. They will be able to access your information from most desktops, laptops, tablets, and/or mobile devices that are connected to the internet.
I’ve used minimed for over a decade and ordered the MiniMed connect as soon as I heard of it. I’m concerned there is no plan to communicate with the Apple watch as that would be incredibly useful, far more so than the phone.. CGM therapy is so integral to how I manage my diabetes I would buy the Apple watch for this app alone. Seeing that a competitor has just announced watch support I’ll likely end up switching if MiniMed doesn’t do the same. Any news on that front?
Exciting technology, please don’t miss the opportunity to fully develop it.
Mitch, we appreciate your feedback, and are looking into making the app compatible with the iWatch and iPad for the future. We’d love to hear about your experience with the MiniMed Connect app once you receive it.
It’s almost been two years and the iWatch still isn’t compatible with the MiniMed CGM. Almost every other provider has a way to share the information with the two devices. Where is Medtronic on this?
Hi Erika, I understand this is frustrating, however at this time we do not have a timeline to share.
sounds great but for all of us on Medicare all this wonderful new Technology does us no good
Crisler, Medtronic is engaged in a coalition effort to support legislation that will expand coverage for diabetes therapies under Medicare. If you haven’t already, please contact your Member of Congress today and urge them to co-sponsor the Medicare CGM Access Act of 2015. You can find your members of Congress and easily contact them here: https://www2.jdrf.org/site/Advocacy?cmd=display&page=UserAction&id=418.
Can you clear alarms with your cell phone rather having to use the insulin pump? I ask because sometimes I don’t have easy access to my insulin pump like when I wear a dress and I’m in a board meeting or when I am working in the operating room.
Thanks!!
Hi Christine. The MiniMed Connect app will allow you to more conveniently and discreetly view valuable insulin pump and sensor information. However, you won’t’ be able to change to your settings or control your pump from the app.
They need to get the signal better on the CGM mine constantly reads weak signal or lost signal so I get tired of it and quite waring in.
Steve, I’m sorry to hear you’re having issues with your CGM signal. This occurs when the insulin pump/CGM monitor does not receive data from the transmitter for a pre-defined period of time. If you haven’t already, try moving the insulin pump/CGM monitor closer to the transmitter, or move the transmitter and the insulin pump/CGM monitor to the same side of your body. I will have someone from my team connect with you to try and help.
Is that also with Android ?
Mays, we are working with Samsung to develop apps for Android and develop mobile applications optimized experiences on Samsung mobile devices that will be available later this calendar year.
Thanks for reply
It will be coverd by insurance companies ?
Mays, since MiniMed Connect is not a prescription device, it’s not covered by insurance. However, the product costs $199 and you may be able to use your flexible spending account (FSA) for the purchase. Some FSA will differ, so make sure to check your policy.
Hello,
My son has a Paradigm Veo Pump. Do you have anything similar that would be compatible with that pump or would he have to switch to the Revel pump? Thank you.
Hi Bonnie. MiniMed Connect will work with both the MiniMed 530G with Enlite and the MiniMed Paradigm Revel system.
Allow me to vent a little. I apologize in advance. Insurance coverage for diabetes sufferers is getting worse every year.
I started on my first insulin pump almost two years ago and I think Medtronic is awesome. However, after about a year, I ran into a problem with my insurance provider regarding the coverage of CGM sensors. I won’t name the provider (not Medicare), but they denied my sensors after having covered them (and the pump itself) for the prior year. They wouldn’t cover my Contour Next test strips AT ALL — I was paying for them $80 a pop. Despite the FDA certification of the MiniMed pump, my insurance company sent me a letter stating that the MiniMed 530g system, including the Enlite sensors, were “experimental” devices and therefore not covered. For several months, I had to do without. As my diabetes is slightly “brittle,” this was a troubling development.
Fortunately, I lucked out when my company changed providers. I was again able to have my sensors. For now.
Post Script: Months later, my old insurance provider sent me a letter stating they were enforcing a supply cap on Humalog insulin! They said that if I needed more insulin than the arbitrary cap allowed each month, I’d have to eat the difference out-of-pocket or, optionally, STOP TAKING INSULIN. Seriously, that was one of their stated options.
Something is seriously wrong here…
Jonathan, I’m sorry to hear you’re frustrated, and understand why you feel this way. I’m glad to hear you have CGM coverage again. Please know we are actively working with Medtronic is actively working with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to ultimately establish coverage consistent with other healthcare insurance companies in the US.
Will it be avaliable in australia?
Lauren, our plan is to have MiniMed Connect available in other countries in the near future, but we’re still working out where and when this will happen.
Hi!
Do you have any timelines for when it might be available in other countries? I’m very interested to hear about availability in Canada! Do you have any information about why the release in Canada will be delayed behind the release in the US?
Thanks! 🙂
Hi Melody. We plan to have MiniMed Connect available in other countries in the near future, but we’re still working out where and when this will happen.
Android availability is a bit vague; it says “Coming Soon.” How soon is “soon?” Winter? Next spring? 2017?
Thank you
Chris, while I cannot give you a timeline, I can tell you we are working on an Android app version and will have more information soon. Samsung is working with Medtronic to also develop an app for Android and optimized experiences on Samsung mobile devices.
Hey Sara… You’re doing an incredible job here in a position that is sometimes, thankless! It’s just not possible to make everybody happy and from someone with T1D…to you guys at Medtronic, thank you. Keep working at it, keep caring like you are & I appreciate your responses to people’s questions & comments.
You’re awesome!
Neil, we think you’re awesome! Thank you so much for your kind words! It put a smile on my face, and really made my day. We admire everything people with diabetes deal with on a daily basis, and work hard every single to make your life easier.
Does this product only work when a pump AND sensor is used or can it used with just a sensor
Great question, Tasha. MiniMed Connect is used with both a pump and sensor, as it communicates directly with the pump.
This sounds absolutely AMAZING – I cannot wait for this device to launch in Canada – Medtronic continues to be THE leader in Diabetes technolgoy – thank you!!! I am puzzled by all the comments from people who are so negative towards these fabulous technology advancements – Remember what the first cellular phone cost back in the ’90’s?? This seems so reasonable to me! I have been a patient for 15 years now and am very excited about what the future holds for all of us using your Pumps and CGM Technology! Please don’t stop launching amazing tools to help us living with insulin requiring diabetes!!!!! Thank you Sara, for being such a gracous ambassador despite some of the comments…..
Hi Gail, we’re excited for this device to launch in the U.S. and other countries in the future, too! We have big dreams and are excited about technology that moves us one step closer to providing you with the diabetes technology solutions you want and deserve. I really appreciate your generous, thoughtful words, Gail!
Hi
What’s maximum distance between the pump and MiniMed Connect?
Bozidar, the MiniMed Connect uploader will need to be within 6 feet of your pump, similar to the range between your pump and your sensor/transmitter.
thus is such great news! I can’t wait for it to come out!
Rachel, I’m happy to hear you’re as excited as we are about MiniMed Connect! Keep us posted on your journey.
Will you be producing a new mini med pump with a built in CGM sensor any time soon? It will be a lot easier to only have one site instead of 2!
Tasha, I’m sorry I can’t give any further details about a future product, but know we do have a smart, enthusiastic team working hard on what’s next.
Is it rechargeable? If not what battery does it take and how long does it last?
The uploader has an internal battery, and comes with a USB charger and wall adapter that you can plug either directly into your computer or into the wall. The uploader battery will last at least one day, and we recommend charging it every night. The uploader will still receive and send information while it is charging as long as it is in range.
Good Morning, will the app have an iwatch connection as well? AKA will I be able to see my sensor numbers on my iwatch?
Hi Nathan. Right now, the personal app will work on the iPhone and iPod Touch, and we’re working on an Android version that will be available soon.
Hi, I am Terry a long time Medtronic pump/CGM user and an Ambassador for Medtronic. I have been working through JDRF to get Senate Bill (S#804) and House Bill (HR#1427) passed in Congress for two years now to force Medicare to cover the CGM system. I need Medtronic’s help for the new MiniMed Connect app to be developed for Windows 8.1 and soon to be released Windows 10 for mobile devices and laptops. Also for myHome, etc. Microsoft has removed app licensing requirements to help app developers bring apps to consumers sooner. I do not want to miss out on Medtronic cutting edge development because I don’t have an Apple or Android phone. Can you please help. Thanks
Terry, thank you for helping support the important CGM Medicare reimbursement cause, and for your feedback. We started with the iPhone app and are working on an Android version that will be available soon. Samsung is working with Medtronic to also develop an app for Android and optimized experiences on Samsung mobile devices. Your care partners can remotely monitor your glucose levels through a web browser from most smartphones, tablets, or computers with internet connectivity.
I’ve been waiting for something like this! I’m hopeful the smartphone app will be available sooner vs. later
We’re excited that you’re looking forward to it! To make sure you don’t miss any news about MiniMed Connect, be sure to register for updates here: http://bit.ly/1KPlmcu. That way you can get all the latest news directly.
My understanding is that you need to purchase a dedicated phone to make this work and that the person who wears the pump has to carry this phone so the uploader loads data to it so it can in turn upload data to the internet (so others can get it). So if you have a younger child (our situation) who may be in school or in after school classes (when you want to see their data), you have to purchase a dedicated cell phone and phone line for them and pay for separate service on that line. I hear it can cost a hundred dollars a month so though the $199 for the uploader isn’t horrible, the monthly fees plus phone costs will add up to this being very costly. Unless I perhaps misunderstand the way this all works? Can you do this with just the uploader and only those seeing the data need the app and the phones? Thank you
Hi NY Parent. For the person who wears the pump, to see their information on their smartphone app, they’ll initially need an iPhone or iPod Touch, and we’re working on compatibility with Android devices as well. If you already have an iPhone, you would not need to purchase another dedicated to the app, you could use the one you have. Care partners can remotely monitor their loved ones glucose levels through a web browser from most smartphones, tablets, or computers with internet connectivity. These devices do not have to be dedicated to the app, they just have to be compatible. I hope this helps answer your questions!
Why not put the uploader in the pump so people don’t have to carry around another item
Great question, Richard. Future generations of Medtronic products will not require the uploader and will transmit automatically from the pump to the smartphone.
That would be fantastic! Move the insulin cartridge to the infusion site as well. No cords!
I am excited for this new technology. I keep my pump on my bra and having to reach in there all the time gets irritating. It draws attention when I don’t reall y want it to. Will I be able to keep the uploader hanging on my purse? Will it need to be within a certain range at all times? I don’t want to have attaché another thing to myself. In another note, when will the FDA approve the sensor/insulin catheter all in one. So I only need two one thing stuck to my body instead of two?
Ali, we too are excited for MiniMed Connect! The uploader will need to be within 6 feet of your pump, similar to the range between your pump, sensor and transmitter. I’m not allowed to talk future products due to FDA rules, but please know we hear you and have an incredibly smart, committed hard-working team working on what’s next.
What ate the cost and when will it come to android phone
Hi Michael. The MiniMed Connect costs $199.We are working on an Android version with Samsung that we expect to be available soon. We will keep the community posted.
What is the minimum distance between the uploader and the iPhone? My 4-year old son is T1, and it would be difficult to have him carry around an iPhone. I’m wondering if I could leave the iPhone in his kit, if that would be close enough?
Hi Darcy, the uploader will need to be within 6 feet of your sons insulin pump pump, similar to the range between his pump, sensor and transmitter.
As you said, the distance between the pump and uploader should be up to 6 feet, BUT what should be the distance between the uploader and the mobile phone?
MK, the uploader will need to be within 20 feet of your mobile device, similar to range between Bluetooth headset and phone.
I am not sure you completely answered the questions concerning the iWatch. The iWatch is not a stand-alone device. It can operate as a second screen for the iPhone located on the user’s wrist. From what I have read, “all third party apps work by cross-loading an extension onto the watch while the app lives on the iPhone.” While I understand that the Medtronic app is written for the iPhone, the question for the electronic engineers at Medtronic is whether the iPhone will transmit the BG level and graph shown in the article to the face of the iWatch. If it does, THIS PRODUCT IS A GAME CHANGER. The user could merely glance at his iWatch to see his BG sensor level. Before everyone spends $500 for an iWatch and (a very resonable) $200 for the MiniMed Connect uploader, is it possible for a Medtronic engineer to perform some testing in the lab and report back the results. Thank you.
Hi David. Currently, the app is not designed to work with the iWatch, so you will need to check your BG levels on your iPhone or iPod touch. We do appreciate your feedback, and will take your suggestions to help implement app changes in the future.
Clarifying questions:
So the type 1 needs to have iPhone in order to upload…how far away can iPhone and/or uploaded need to be to make this work? Does type1 need to do anything to upload or is it automatic/continuously feed iPhone app?
Thanks!
Great questions, Brianna! To use the MiniMed Connect app, you’ll initially need an iPhones 4S or newer, or iPod Touch 4th generation or newer. However, we’re working on compatibility with Android devices as well. The uploader will need to be within 6 feet of your insulin pump, and within 20 feet of your mobile device. The uploader communicates with the pump through radio frequency, and uses Bluetooth Low Energy to send your pump and CGM data to the mobile app automatically about every five minutes. The app will also automatically upload all of your data to CareLink each night. I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
Will the iPhone application save the BG values to Apple Health?
Great question, Adam. Currently, the MiniMed Connect app does not save your BG values to the Apple Health app. However, the MiniMed Connect app will automatically upload your pump and CGM data to your CareLink personal account where you can see your information. Please let me know if you have any other questions.
Can you please send that as a feature request to the product development team. Saving to Apple Health as well as care link would allow us to also use apps such as Onedrop to manage food, medication and exercise in one place.
Absolutely, Adam. We appreciate your feedback.
Hi Sara. This technology seems very useful for many that care for those managing diabetes and for personal updates to your own. As I read through the one feature I really hoped for seems missing, this would be the ability to address/clear pump alerts from the phone. Normally I wear my meter in an elastic strap underneath my chest completely hidden at work, this means a trip to the bathroom is needed every-time I have an alert. I can manage to hit act end by counting buttons if I am stuck in a meeting but feeling through two shirts and a strap is difficult work and people wonder what I am doing. Could the minimed connect app be used to view then clear alarm status so it does not end up an audible alarm?
David, the MiniMed Connect app allows you to more conveniently and discreetly view your insulin pump and sensor information, so if you receive an alarm on your pump, you can open your app to see what the pump alert means. However, you will not be able to clear your alarms or control your pump through the app.
We do appreciate your feedback, and I’ll be sure to share it with our team for future updates.
Will it allow to send data, text alerts to more than 1 mobile device?
Hi Pierre. Up to three care partners can receive customized text message notifications that let them know important information, like when your sensor glucose levels go too high or too low, if you don’t clear the alarm yourself.
Just an FYI…I ordered the MiniMed Connect and then later saw the app was available for download…when I went to download the app I found out that it is NOT compatible with the iPhone 4 even though I was told it would be compatible with all iPhone platforms. Even though I really want this technology I had to cancel my order because I cannot afford to purchase this and a new iPhone.
Hi Robin, I’m sorry the MiniMed Connect iOS capability wasn’t clearly communicated to you, and can understand how this would be frustrating. The MiniMed Connect mobile app will work with iPhones 4S and up, and 4th generation iPod touch and up. On some older devices, you may receive a warning message that the app may not work perfectly on those devices, depending on the model and operating system. The app works best on mobile devices with the operating system of iOS8 and up.
When this device will be connect to other models like paradigm 754 ?
Hi Hesham. Right now, MiniMed Connect can be used with MiniMed Revel and MiniMed 530G. Our plan is to have MiniMed Connect available in other countries in the near future, but we’re still working out where and when this will happen.
Will it work with european paradigm models.
Wenn we order the connect uploader from US
Kim, MiniMed Connect is available in the U.S. and was initially designed for compatibility with the MiniMed 530G or MiniMed Revel systems, which are only available in the U.S. Our plan is to have MiniMed Connect compatible with insulin pump systems in other countries in the near future, but we’re still working out where and when this will happen.
what happens when they are to high or too low? what is the notification does it make noise? and can you change the sound it makes?
Emaleigh, the MiniMed Connect app will not make any sounds to alert you, but if you hear your pump beep, then you will be able to open your app to see what the alert means. If you’d like to get customized text messages for your alerts and alarms, you can set up text message notifications through your CareLink Personal account.
The app should really have the ability to give a notification sound / alarm this would make the whole system much better because one of the major disappointments I have with the Medtronic pump / cgm and I know that I am not alone in this opinion and that it is shared by many the alarms / beeps compared to some of your competitors systems that have loud alarms that can and will actually get your attention any time it is needed and not only if you are awake or in a quiet place so for this reason Medtronic should really put the ability to make notification sounds / alarms into the MiniMed Connect
Thank you for your suggestion, Matt. Please know that we hear you and that we have an incredibly smart, committed hard-working team working on what’s next.
Is there a promo code I can use to bring the price down on the minimed connect to a more affordable amount?
Hi Richard, we do not have any promo codes for MiniMed Connect, but you may be able to use your flexible spending account (FSA) for the purchase. FSA’s differ, so make sure to check your policy.
My wife has used the Medtronic pump for 10+ years, and the CGMS for the last six or seven years. The biggest problem that she experiences with her diabetes is the fact that she doesn’t easily recognize lows, and has difficulty sleeping because she is worried that her levels will go too low while she sleeps. The alarm on the pump is not nearly loud enough to wake her, so if I don’t hear it and alert her she simply sleeps right through what could be very dangerous lows. I see this product as the solution for her (and probably many others) in that she could get an alert on her bedside phone in the form of a (persistent) text message that could be much louder than the pump alarm. That is, if her phone (or mine, or both) could be assigned as one of the caregivers…….and if the uploader updates the information every 5 minutes as implied in the cut sheet. Do I have that right? And if so, why will insurance not cover the expense of the uploader, if it could indeed help her avoid regular 35 to 40 lows that she sleeps right through. I wouldn’t be able to fall sleep either I guess, if that’s what I was thinking about as I go to bed each night.
Joel, you’re correct – with MiniMed Connect, you and your wife would be able to set up text message notifications for low or high sensor glucoses, as well as pump alerts and alarms. Because MiniMed Connect is not a prescription device, it’s not covered by insurance. However, you may be able to use your flexible spending account (FSA) for the purchase. Some FSAs will differ, so make sure to check your policy.
I understand how important it is to get restful sleep, and with diabetes, that can sometimes feel out of reach. You and your wife may be interested in learning more about the Threshold Suspend automation feature of the MiniMed 530G system, which automatically stops insulin delivery if sensor glucose values reach a preset low threshold and the patient doesn’t respond to the Threshold Suspend alarm. Please let me know if your wife would like someone from my team to connect with her to discuss this further.
Any news on rolling this out in Sweden? If this has been rolled out elsewhere, please explain the delay. This is great news and mean you can hide the big pump under all clothing – handy when it comes to cold winters.
Andreas, currently, MiniMed Connect was initially designed for compatibility with the MiniMed 530G or MiniMed Revel systems, which are only available in the U.S. Our plan is to have MiniMed Connect compatible with our MiniMed insulin pump systems in other countries in the near future, but we’re still working out where and when this will happen.
Hi Sara, My son was diagnosed with D1T last year, and a month later we got him Medtronic insulin pump Enlite, i heard this product it’s going to work with this model, my insurance does not paid for CGM so he is not currently using it, would he still be able to use the MiniMed connect? Would it work with the pump alone?
Thanks
Hi Arais. Yes, your son can still use his MiniMed Connect without using his CGM, and will be able to view his active insulin, reservoir volume, and pump battery. In addition to viewing his pump information, his full pump history will be automatically uploaded to CareLink Personal every 24 hours. Please let me know if you’d like me to connect you with someone from my team to discuss your son’s CGM coverage options. We do offer financial assistance to those who meet certain criteria.
Hi there,
I was able to successfully install and set up the MM Connect on my iPhone 6, which I use to monitor my 8yr old. However, when I am trying to do the same with my wife’s iPhone 6, I cannot get the connection to work.
MY Question: Can I connect this device to multiple phones through the app? My wife and I are not always with our son at the same time (sports, school, etc), so we want to make sure SOMEONE’s phone is feeding the information into Carelink. I’d prefer not to have to go buy an 8 year old his own phone, I’d rather our “tribe” (school nurse, teacher, parent, grandparent) be able to take over.
Jason, the uploader can only send information to one MiniMed Connect mobile app, and there currently is no app for care partners to use to follow the device data. Care partners can access your son’s information by logging into his CareLink Personal account from a desktop, laptop, tablet or mobile device connected to the internet. I understand you’d like whoever is with your son to have access to his information through MiniMed Connect and prefer not to buy your son an iPhone. MiniMed Connect also works with 4th generation iPod touch and up, which you could use instead of the iPhone.
Thanks for the reply. So to confirm, the Connect will only “connect” to one device? If this is true it’s a little different than what we were lead to believe (up to three devices). I understand I could use an iPod Touch instead, but of course this now means we are limited to a wireless connection vs phone network.
Next question: If I can only connect one device through the app which then feed to the Carelink site, but can use the internet connection to Carelink for the other devices (myself, wife, grandmother, school nurse, etc) to monitor, WHEN will Carelink be updated to work on the latest iPhone and Macintosh Safari browser? It seems odd that Medtronic focused on a new iPhone app, but the Carelink site itself really only functions well on a PC or OLD Mac.
Thank you.
That’s correct, Jason, MiniMed Connect uploader will only connect to one device. I’m sorry if we didn’t communicate clearly regarding the number of devices that can be connected. To clarify, up to three care partners can receive text message notifications for pump alerts and alarms.
CareLink Personal (v7) supports Microsoft 7 or 8 with Microsoft Internet Explorer 10 or 11, Mozilla Firefox 24, and Mac OS 10.8, 10.9, 10.10 with Safari 6, 7, or 8. Please know we continuously work to ensure CareLink system requirements are routinely updated to be compatible with the latest operating systems and browsers for Windows and Mac.
You can actually use Carelink on the latest Safari version (9.0) with a little “trick.” Go under Safari “Preferences”, then select “Advanced”. At the bottom of the window, click on “Show Develop in menu bar.” “Develop” will now appear in the menu bar at the top of the Safari window. Click on “Develop” and from the drop down menu select “User Agent”. This allows you to make Safari act like one of the other options. I find Carelink works well with most of the Apple options listed – I usually use iPad option. Hope this helps.
I am a type 1 diagnosed at age 13, 1984. I started IPT on minimed in 1990 and am still loyal to Medtronic to this day. I educate friends, coworkers, doctors, nurses and strangers on a daily basis. On my sixth Medtronic pump and my second CGM. I am considering switching due to the fact Medtronic seems to be lagging behind in technology. In addition after the purchase of my newest pump (4 years ago) with the CGM I felt I did not receive the support I had in the past. It saddens me because I have always LOVED my pump and I am very vocal in my diabetes community. I am a nurse, a mother and diabetes advocate. I would like to know if Medtronic will be changing the look of the pump and if the new sensor will work with my Apple Watch. Also when will it be available? Come on Medtronic get with the times, you need a new design, a more updated look and technology.
25 years with Minimed/Medtronic
Kira, thank you for being a loyal Medtronic customer for all of these years, and for your candid feedback. I am very sorry to hear you’re disappointed, and have not received the support you deserve and had in the past.
MiniMed 530G with Enlite is our latest integrated insulin pump and CGM, and the first product approved in the new FDA category “OZO: Artificial Pancreas Device System, threshold suspend”. Threshold Suspend automation is a feature of the MiniMed 530G system that automatically stops insulin delivery if sensor glucose values reach a preset low threshold and the patient doesn’t respond to the Threshold Suspend alarm.
I ‘m not allowed to talk future products due to FDA rules, but please know we hear you and have an incredibly smart, committed hard-working team working on what’s next.
I will make sure you are taken care of, and have someone on my team connect with you to help with any other questions or concerns you may have.
Hello,
I’ve had the connect for about a month now and I love the convenience of seeing my numbers on my phone, especially when I am wearing clothing that makes my pump harder to access. I’m glad I only have to pull my pump out when I need to bolus or perform other commands. My only feedback is that I would love to have the app also available on my Apple Watch. Being a runner, it would be so nice to just glance at my watch for an update on my blood glucose rather than trying to take out my pump while running. Is there any insight into whether or not an app will be available for the Apple Watch soon?
Thank you.
Kim, it makes me happy to hear you are enjoying the convenience of seeing your numbers on your phone with MiniMed Connect. While I do not have any updates, please know we have heard feedback like yours and are looking into this.
I’ve now had the connect for a few months. For another feature request would be for an audible alarm(or notification from the app) for when connect’s battery is getting low (perhaps in the evening when most people recharge their devices)as the connect has a pretty limited battery life. Given the the set and forget nature of the connect, I have had The battery being dead for a couple of separate week long gaps with no data uploaded to carelink
Thank you for your feedback, Adam. I’ll be sure to pass this along to our product development team. We do recommend charging your uploader using the USB charger every night.
Just got my Connect system this week, and I’m wondering how people are carrying the transmitter to make it more convenient. I’m male; right now, I’m just carrying it in my pocket, opposite of my pump, which I also carry in a pocket. I heard someone suggest connecting it to my Iphone (with Velcro), but I carry my phone also in another pocket, so now I’m getting overloaded! Any creative suggestions/solutions out there?
Hi David. Everyone has their own preference of how they carry the uploader, but you may find helpful to put it on a keychain or along with something kept close (like a meter case). We’re working on a case to carry both the pump and uploader.
Sarah, Methinks David was creatively and expertly using sarcasm to indicate that the entire premise of introducing yet another thing to carry around is precisely the wrong direction for Medtronics to move. Here is, once again, a novel idea that you and Karrie have refused to acknowledge… Give us CGM readings and pump controls on our phone without having to use an intermediate device for communication.
Thanks for your feedback, Heath. I have made sure to share this with our team.
No news on availability in Canada since the June post. Real soon now… I’m sure…
Hi Fred. We do not have any updates on when MiniMed Connect will be available in Canada, but will be sure to let the community know as soon as we do.
Hi Sara, is thru the website carelink.minimed.com the only place that friends / loved ones can have a look at my blood sugars ? I also have had the system for some time now and have enjoyed the convenience of glancing at my phone instead of reaching for the pump, but hope the web page isn’t the only way to see the results. I downloaded the app as I use on my iphone, but it only seems to be able to receive data thru Bluetooth ?
Thank you
Sevan
Sevan, in order for your loved ones to remotely view your diabetes data using MiniMed Connect they will need to be logged in to your CareLink account. They can do this through through a web browser from most smartphones, tablets, or computers with internet connectivity.
While having CGI was helpful, it wasn’t until I started using Minimed Connect and Carelink that I was able to use CGI to its full potential. Previously it was just too inconvenient to pull my pump off my belt and hold it up so I could read my glucose in many situations and the graph was difficult to appreciate on the small screen. Now when exercising, walking around at work or in a meeting I can just glance my iPhone for a quick (and discrete) look at my glucose graph. With Carelink I can keep the graph up on my MacBook so that with a quick swipe to that screen, I can see where I am without even having to look at my iPhone (even more discrete!). Being able to consistently access the data throughout the day has allowed me to keep within my target range >95% of the time. If I’m trending a little high, I can take a quick bolus. If I’m trending toward a low, I can just pop a glucose tab. For me the combination of Connect and Carelink has been a real game-changer!
Any update on when the MiniMed Connect will be available in Australia?
Jane, our plan is to have MiniMed Connect available in other countries in the near future, but we’re still working out where and when this will happen.
Joel,
I applauded Medtronics to having put out the Minimed Connect in the summer of 2015 and questioned when it would be available in Canada. Have been told in numerous emails that “we’re still working out when this will happen” for the past 7 months. This thread of comments contains the same questions from many other users with similar responses from Minimed (no response). What is the target date for the release of Minimed Connect in Canada and what are the issues which are delaying this release? Users would appreciate getting a better understanding of the issues.
Hi Martin, thank you for your interest in MiniMed Connect. This page is managed by the US team and is intended for US audiences. It looks like you’re in Canada. I recommend checking for local contacts who may be able to help better address your question here – http://www.medtronicdiabetes.com/customer-support/international-contacts
Are there any plans to make a connect app for Windows phones?
Hi Steve, right now the MiniMed Connect app is compatible with iPhones and iPods, and we’re working on Android compatibility. We’re listening to customer feedback for requests for future updates.
Waiting for this company to design new products and devices is really frustrating. I want my sensor to connect directly to my phone without the use of a “key-fob”. Also,this enlite sensor has a terrible design. It hardly ever stays attached to my skin, and after a few days the overtake starts to pull off. The sensor gets caught on my clothing and when I pull my pants on it rips off. Or when I have some thing in my shirt pocket (I wear scrubs for work) it gets stuck under my sensor and when I turn or bend it starts to rip the sensor off. I’m sure this could be fixed by wearing bundles of tape around my sensor, but I don’t understand why better or bigger tape isn’t included with the sensors if this is a known problem. So my advice, make the tape under the sensor bigger so it has a bigger surface area that sticks to the skin. That might be a good start to fixing the sensor, but I recommend a total “re-do”. Why would you make a sensor that connects only at one side? That can have objects slide under it so easily?
Hi Rachel, I’m sorry you’re frustrated but please know that your feedback is appreciated. We have been listening closely to customer feedback for requests for future updates and we’re always innovating, both with new and existing products. If you’d like to be connected with someone from our HelpLine team to see if they may be able to help please let me know.
Can you see the blood sugars on an Apple Watch with the connect?
No, Dianne. MiniMed Connect is not compatible with Apple Watch at this time. We have heard feedback like yours and have shared it with our team.
Diabetes management tools have been historically slow to migrate to mobile devices. Now that Apple Watch series 2 is already out w/many people upgrading from fitbits, etc, does Medtronic have a timeline for syncing with the apple watch? Thank you for providing this forum for Q&A.
I’m sorry Catherine, at this time I don’t have a timeline to share of when this might be available.
Is this available in Canada
Hi Jeff – we are the US team. This is a great question for your local team:
http://www.medtronicdiabetes.ca
http://www.medtronicdiabetes.ca (French site)
Medtronic Diabetes Canadian Customer Services/ Order Desk
Tel: 800-284-4416
Product Support: 1-800-MINIMED
This is so dated. Why can’t the phone app and the pump simply interact together? They both have blue tooth. Why do you have to purchase a “connect” device. Also, why can’t you administer a bolus from the app? This would be more discreet than having to manually administer a bolus at a business lunch or other event.
Medtronic–this is not rocket science. It’s 2017. catch up.
Thank you for the feedback, Clyde. I have made sure to share with my team.
I can’t find a place to order the device. The earlier links to sign up for notifications are outdated or link to the Medtronics Store but these devices aren’t there. Does it work with the 670G?
Hi there, Jay! At this time, we are no longer selling MiniMed Connect. Based on feedback, we’ve decided to focus on future ways to make these and other features available to people with diabetes, including bringing connectivity directly into our pump and CGM systems.
Thank you for your quick response anyway. I hope it’s being developed aggressively. I just started on the 670G and it’s VERY difficult to check and respond to notifications and level displays on the screen. I have to remove it from the belt and that’s not that easy as the clip hangs up on the belt. If I found an older/used Connect FOB, would it work with the 670G? Or is the mechanism that made it work not built into the 670G?
Thanks.
Jay, our Paradigm series and 600 series pumps work off different RF frequencies, so the MiniMed Connect would not work with our newest pump systems. We know how important these features are to our customers and are definitely hard at work to make them available.
Well, better late than never. I am guessing you have no timeline to share of when this might be available and that you have heard feedback like this and have shared it with your team.
Unfortunately, we do not have a timeline at this time, but we’ll be sure to share more information as it becomes available.