What is Needed to Start
Pump
Pump connects tubing to a small patch called an infusion set that attaches to the body.
Reservoir
Tubed insulin pumps contain a plastic reservoir or cartridge that is manually filled with insulin and locked into the pump.
Infusion Set
An infusion set contains the thin plastic tubing that delivers insulin from the pump to the body.
Watch and Learn
Introduction to Medtronic Insulin Pumps
Inserting the Quick-set Infusion Set
Using the Medtronic Pumps
Device Details
Affordability and Access
$$$$
Widely covered for insulin-dependent type 1 and type 2. Pump can be provided by pharmacy or DME. Price range; $0-$8,574 to start and $0-$300/Month. Price range varies depending on insurance coverage.
Data Monitoring Options
Yes
Pump data can be viewed by your healthcare team on the CareLink therapy management software.
Data View Options
Yes
Data is viewed on the pump's main screen.
Duration and Storage
3 Days
Infusion site and pump reservoir last up to 72 hours and works between 40ºF - 104ºF.
Vision / Auditory / Dexterity
NO text to speech
YES vibration alerts
A LOT of dexterity needed
Patient Considerations
Comfort
Largest tubed pump. Small patch called an infusion set consists of a complete tubing system that attaches to the body. Tubed pumps have the most infusion sets to pick from.
Active Lifestyle
Exercise mode. Optional settings for exercise to adjust treatment ranges for activity with the press of a button. Pump is not waterproof.
Avoiding Highs and Lows
Precise dosing. Pumps allow different amounts of basal insulin at different times of day and very precise dosing.
Easy to Use
Battery required. Pump has button navigation and requires AA battery.
Easy Insulin Dosing
Customizable dosing. Bolus calculator available to help figure out doses. Basal and bolus in 0.025 increments.
Fewer Fingersticks
Frequent finger-sticks are required.
Privacy
Somewhat discreet. Largest pump with visible tubing. Can be clipped to clothing or placed in a pocket to be discreet when needed.
Related Device Combos
Meter & Pump
Meter & Medtronic Pump
The Medtronic pump is covered by most insurance and has the ability to communicate with a Contour meter.
Sensor & Pump
Medtronic Sensor & Medtronic Pump
The Medtronic sensor and pump communicate with each other, so there's no need to keep track of a separate sensor receiver.
Sensor & Pump
Freestyle Libre 2 & Medtronic Pump
These devices do not connect but they each have their merits. The Freestyle Libre 2 can alert you when you are high and low. You get data only when you want it. The Medtronic pump is a sturdy and efficient pump.