MiniMed Flex
Meter
Summary
The MiniMed Flex is a tubed insulin pump system designed to automate insulin delivery using SmartGuard™ technology and the Simplera Sync sensor. Boluses can be delivered directly through the MiniMed app, while customizable settings help support glucose management throughout the day.
Good to have. Tried and true. Backup or day to day. Fingersticks required.
Components
Controller
Pump receives CGM readings and automatically adjusts insulin delivery. Data from the pump and CGM viewable on compatible smartphones.
Infusion Set
An infusion set contains the thin plastic tubing that delivers insulin from the pump to the body. Optional Medtronic Extended™ Infusion set (up to 7-day wear) available.
Reservoir
Tubed insulin pumps contain a plastic reservoir or cartridge that is manually filled with insulin and locked into the pump. ExtendedTM Reservoir MMT-342, 10PK. 3.0 ml (300 units).
Pump
Pump connects tubing to a small patch called an infusion set that attaches to the body.
Glucometer
The meter measures the amount of sugar in the small sample of blood that is placed on the disposable test strip. Most CGMs require testing blood sugar with a meter to calibrate the CGM device daily.
Test Strips
The strips work with the glucose meters to “read” blood sugar levels. One box of test trips usually contains between 25-50 single use strips.
Lancets
Tiny needle called a lancet is used to poke the skin (on a finger or on your arm) to get a small sample of blood. The lancing device is packaged with the glucometer.
Device Details
Overview
A tubed insulin pump system that works with the Simplera Sync sensor and SmartGuard™ technology to automatically adjust insulin delivery.
Good to have. Tried and true. Backup or day to day. Finger-sticks required.
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.
$$$$
Most accessible. Available over the counter at all Pharmacies. Price range; $0-$200/month depending on insurance coverage.
Data Monitoring Options
Yes
Pump data can be viewed by your healthcare team on the CareLink therapy management software.
Limited Options
Data is available directly on the device. Some meters may be compatible with the Tidepool data management system.
Data View Options
Yes
Data is viewed on the phone app.
Yes
Data may be viewed directly on the device. Some meters contain a built-in USB connection that allows information to be uploaded to a data management system.
Duration and Storage
2-3 Days. Infusion site and pump reservoir last up to 72 hours and works between 41ºF - 93ºF.
Daily
Meters can last several years with battery changes/charging, they're used daily and work between 65ºF-86°F
Vision / Auditory / Dexterity
NO text to speech
YES vibration alerts
A LOT of dexterity needed
NO text to speech
NO vibration alerts
A LOT of dexterity needed
Patient Considerations
Active Lifestyle
Exercise mode. Optional settings for exercise to adjust treatment ranges for activity with the press of a button. Pump is waterproof for up to 8 feet for 105 minutes.
Must pause activity to check blood sugar.
Avoiding Highs and Lows
Precise dosing. Pumps allow different amounts of basal insulin at different times of day and very precise dosing.
Less data. Meters don't give as much blood sugar data as sensors do and require a high level of engagement and effort to avoid highs and lows.
Comfort
Small 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.
Meter supplies carried and requires visible blood.
Easy Insulin Dosing
Customizable dosing. Bolus calculator available to help figure out doses. Basal and bolus in 0.05 increments.
Limited features. No info on blood sugar trends.
Easy to Use
Pump has a rechargeable battery that takes 30 minutes to charge, and lasts about a week.
Large display. Device typically has large display numbers for easier readouts, and it's very simple to operate.
Fewer Fingersticks
Frequent fingersticks are still required.
Frequent fingersticks are unavoidable.
Privacy
Discrete. The MiniMed Flex is small with visible tubing. Can be clipped to clothing or placed in a pocket to be discrete when needed.
No attached device for blood glucose monitoring.