Diabetes (T1D)

Ultimate Comparison: Omnipod vs. Medtronic MiniMed Insulin Pumps – Which Reigns Supreme?

by | Jan 30, 2024

Disclaimer: The content you’re about to read may contain affiliate links to products I love and recommend. Which means, I may earn a small commission from items purchased through these links (at no additional cost to you) which helps me provide even more awesome content for you 😊 I appreciate your support!

Managing diabetes has improved significantly, thanks to innovations in insulin delivery systems and continuous glucose monitoring systems (CGM). Among the top insulin pumps are the MiniMed Medtronic 670G and the Omnipod 5. Both offer unique features and benefits, catering to diverse needs and lifestyles. In this post, I’ll share my experiences with both pumps in hopes of providing perspective to help you make an informed choice and pick the pump that is right for you!

Choosing the right insulin pump totally depends on the unique needs and lifestyle of the individual. For example, if you’re active in sports, it is important to consider factors like:

  • Ability to disconnect from pump
  • Tubing getting caught
  • Infusion site falling off during high impact/contact activities (tackling, sliding onto bases, water, sweat, etc.)

My journey with insulin pumps began over 20 years ago with Medtronic. Flashback to January 2000 when I got my first ever insulin pump! It was the second semester of my freshman year of high school. At the time, I had been diabetic for just over 3 years.

Initially, following my diagnosis, my insulin regimen started out on 2 injections per day of regular “R” (short acting insulin) and “NPH” (long-acting insulin). After a year and a half my doctor started discussing increasing injection frequency to 3-4 times per day (at each meal), for better control. This made me feel emotional, I didn’t want to have to take more injections. I hated the thought of more needles, more pain, and having to take more time away from trying to be “normal” and stop what was doing to test and take another shot!

Then it was suggested I consider going on a pump, so I wouldn’t have to drop what I was doing for constant finger pricks and shots. Doing 1 infusion site change for the pump once every 3-4 days sounded a hell of a lot better than poking myself 3-4 times a day! But I was scared to try it. I despised the thought of having a “cannula” stuck under my skin delivering insulin at all times. I remembered how painful the needle from the IV in my arm at the hospital was, and I couldn’t bear the thought of experiencing the same pain, if that is how a cannula of an infusion set felt! I hated diabetes!

A little encouragement from my dad made me reconsider. One day, as we were weighing out the pros and cons of transitioning to a pump, I admitted that the fear of the pain was holding me back. My dad suggested I ask a few of the kids at the diabetes support group how they feel. *Lightbulb moment* My dad was right, I should ask the kids at the support group, duh!

The following week, I asked 2 or 3 of the kids who wore insulin pumps if they were painful to wear, and much to my surprise, they said, no, aside from the initial infusion set injection, the needle is removed, and all that is left under the skin is a tiny, flexible tube, smaller than the tip of your fingernail, and much like a straw. Wow! I couldn’t believe it, no needle?! Fantastic. I was sold.

Initially hesitant, I found comfort after hearing positive experiences from peers in a diabetes support group. I immediately went home and told my parents I was ready to try it!

At my next endocrinologist visit we ordered my very first insulin pump: MiniMed 508. The transition to the MiniMed 508 pump marked a turning point in my diabetes management, offering newfound freedom and flexibility.

I fell head over heels in love and became a huge fan of insulin pumps!

  • I loved that I could easily detach from my infusion set to take a shower, go swimming, or workout.
  • I loved that I could easily hide my pump in my pocket or clip it to my bra.
  • I loved that I could choose to eat another slice of pizza and just bolus extra for it, instead of having to give another injection if I wanted to eat more carbs than I had initially calculated for my injection. It felt like FREEDOM!

I remained a loyal Medtronic customer for the next 23 years. I had several different models including:

  • MiniMed 508
  • MiniMed Paradigm 511
  • MiniMed Paradigm 515
  • MiniMed 670G with Guardian Sensor 3

And several different colors including:

  • Pink
  • Blue
  • Teal
  • Black

However, over time, and through networking via social media, diabetes meet-ups/ support groups, and diabetes camp, I began to notice a variety of different pumps and became curious.

The things I didn’t love about my Medtronic Minimed were:

  • Tubing constantly got stuck on doorknobs, edges of counters, cabinets, car doors, anything!
  • My daughter was also constantly pulling at the tubing
  • Limitations in clothing choices – I always had to have pockets (or I’d have to clip it to my bra, if I wore a dress.) Kinda awkward to have your chest beep during a work meeting and there aren’t too many discrete ways to dig into your bar to silence it in a room full of people!

It all changed one day when I saw another T1D mom friend post a picture of her new Omnipod insulin pump on social media! I instantly sent her a message to see how she liked it, and she wrote back raving!

“I am loving it! Sooo excited for summer now! I used to dread it because I felt the Medtronic always made my tank tops look ugly because of the pump stuck in my bra or made a weird shape. And, I couldn’t wear cute summer dresses because there wasn’t a place for my pump and my shorts always had the pump shoved in the pocket and they were so uncomfortable. But now – I’m so excited again!”

I was getting excited too, but not sold quite yet. I was worried that the Omnipod looked so bulky on your arm, leg, or stomach and would be difficult to cover up. However, she reassured me that the Omnipod was much smaller than she thought it would be.

Next, I wondered how much insulin the Omnipod held in comparison to the Medtronic, and how often I’d have to change the infusion site? Could I have a CGM that communicates with the Omnipod, like I had with my Medtronic? Is it less painful to insert?

For the answers to those questions, read on my friend!

In case you are dying to know, my overall winner and favorite pick would be, the:

Omnipod!

Continue reading below for my comprehensive comparison and breakdown of the MiniMed Medtronic 670G and the Omnipod 5 pump systems, to help you decide which one might be the right fit for you.

Comparing the MiniMed Medtronic 670G and Omnipod 5 reveals key differences in design, convenience, and site change frequency. The Omnipod’s tubeless, wearable design stands out for its convenience and discretion, particularly for parents of young children.

A Tale of Two Insulin Pumps: MiniMed Medtronic 670G vs. Omnipod 5

Design and Convenience:

  • MiniMed Medtronic 670G:
    • Traditional insulin pump that consists of a pump unit and a separate infusion set connected via tubingWater resistant
    • AA battery
  • Omnipod 5:
    • Boasts a tubeless, wearable design. All-in-one pod system, eliminating the need for tubing. The pod adheres directly to the skin (no external pump unit to clip to a bra/belt or hide in a pocket), a design that offers more discretion and freedom.
      • *I imagine this would be a popular pump choice for parents of small children as they wouldn’t have to worry about them getting tangled up in the tubing!
      Waterproof
    • Remote, Rechargeable smartphone-like Personal Diabetes Manager device (transmitter)

Site Change & Frequency:

  • MiniMed Medtronic 670G:
    • Changing the infusion set and reservoir typically takes a few steps, utilizes adhesive wipes and tape. Manufacturer advises changing infusion site every 3 days, however I used to stretch mine out 5 days. (I don’t recommend trying this at home, as skin irritations, wounds and/or infection can occur).
  • •Omnipod 5:
    • The pod is replaced every 3 days, and the process is relatively hassle-free, making it an attractive option for those seeking ease of use.

Insulin Capacity:

Integrated CGM and Automation:

Both the MiniMed Medtronic 670G and the Omnipod 5 are equipped with Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) systems, but they differ in terms of automation.

  • MiniMed Medtronic 670G: Features Smart Guard technology, which can automatically adjust basal insulin delivery based on real-time CGM data.

It’s known as a “hybrid closed-loop” system, offering a high degree of automation in managing blood glucose levels, including predictive alerts.

  • Omnipod 5: Incorporates Horizon Automated Insulin Delivery (AID) technology. It aims to provide more advanced closed-loop insulin delivery. Compatible with Dexcom G6 CGM.

Cost and Insurance Coverage:

Cost can be a significant consideration when choosing an insulin pump.

  • MiniMed Medtronic 670G:
    • Potentially higher upfront cost, and insurance coverage may vary depending on your provider. (My insurance plan covered 80% of the cost of the pump, after I met my deductible. Expect to pay a couple thousand dollars.)
    • Additionally, you’ll want to consider ongoing expenses such as supplies: infusion sets and sensors. I typically paid between $400- $700 for a 3-month supply of infusion sets and sensors.
  • Pro Tip: I always opt for the health insurance plans that deduct more from my paychecks on a monthly or biweekly basis, but have a lower deductible because it is easy to meet a lower deductible pretty quickly given the cost of insulin and pump supplies!
  • Omnipod 5:
    • Also comes with an initial cost, but the tubeless design and ease of use may offset the expense.
    • In comparison, I only pay a $35 copay for each box of pods (5/per box). Each pod lasts about 3 days. 5 pods x 3 days = 15 days, that’s 2 boxes of pods a month, which translates to roughly $70 per month for Omnipod insulin pump. Omnipod is overall cheaper for me with the specific Anthem Blue Cross Blue Sheild plan I have.   
  Pump   Design and Convenience   Site Change & Frequency   Insulin Capacity   Integrated CGM and Automation
  Medtronic MiniMed 670G   Tubing (can be disconnected), water resistant, AA battery     3-5 Days     300 units   Yes, “Closed- loop” Guardian sensor
  Omnipod 5   No tubing, waterproof, remote/rechargeable transmitter     3 Days     200 units   Yes, Dexcom G6

Check with your insurance provider to determine coverage for both the Omnipod and Medtronic systems.

Ultimately, the choice between the MiniMed Medtronic 670G and Omnipod 5 depends on personal preferences and lifestyle factors. The MiniMed Medtronic 670G offers advanced automation with integrated CGM, while the Omnipod 5 prioritizes user customization and convenience.

 Consultation with healthcare professionals and insurance providers can guide you in selecting the best option for your diabetes management needs.

Keep in mind that the right choice is the one that helps you achieve better control over your blood glucose levels and enhances your overall quality of life.

Remember, as a patient and health consumer, you do not have to keep the pump system or device if you are not satisfied. You can always pick another pump system the next time your insurance provider allows.

Since I mentioned integrated CGMs in the above insulin pump conversation, for those of you who are curious about Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) systems, continue reading below, as I’ve shared my insights into the Medtronic Guardian and the Freestyle Libre 3, along with my current favorite!

At the moment, my all around CGM pick is:  

Freestyle Libre 3!

While I do miss my old Medtronic CGM seamlessly communicating with my pump and making automatic adjustments and predictive alerts, nothing can beat the simplicity and discreteness of the Libre 3.

Prior to changing over to the Libre 3, I used to have to beg my husband to help me insert the Medtronic Guardian CGM. It was a complex process and I bled almost every time a new one was inserted☹.

However, the Libre 3 is the complete opposite, super simple. You literally take it out of the box, untwist it and push down. Ok, well you might run a little alcohol or adhesive swab over your skin first, but that’s it! It is gentle and painless!

Did I mention how thin and tiny it is? In fact, it’s the world’s smallest sensor! About the size of a penny, you can hide it anywhere. Although the manufacturer only approves of wearing on the back of your arm, I sometimes go rogue and insert the sensor on my hip area.

*Please note: The content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. I am not a medical doctor, and the information shared here is based solely on my personal experiences and research. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this blog.

The information provided here is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Reliance on any information provided by this blog is solely at your own risk.

Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) systems have revolutionized diabetes management, providing real-time insights into blood sugar levels and improved patient wellbeing and outcomes.

I will share with you my experience with two of the leading options for CGMs: the Medtronic Guardian and the Freestyle Libre 3.

Accuracy and Performance:

Accuracy is paramount when it comes to CGM systems, as it directly impacts your ability to manage your diabetes effectively.

  • MiniMed Medtronic Guardian CGM:
    • known for its impressive accuracy, with the latest models boasting MARD (Mean Absolute Relative Difference) values as low as 8.7%. (Like golf, the lower the number the better).
    • Offers predictive alerts to help you anticipate potential blood sugar fluctuations, empowering proactive management.
  • Freestyle Libre 3:
    • MARD value of approximately 9.3%. It offers precise glucose readings that can be relied upon for decision-making.
    • The device stands out with its real-time trend arrows, making it easy to understand the direction your blood sugar is heading in.

Ease of Use and Insertion:

A hassle-free and comfortable experience is crucial, as it can encourage consistent CGM use.

  • MiniMed Medtronic Guardian CMG:
    • Features a one-button insertion process, however, still have to charge and attach the transmitter, then overlay with adhesive tape and calibrate.
    • Compatible with a variety of insertion angles, offering flexibility in choosing the most comfortable site.
  • Freestyle Libre 3:
    • Celebrated for its simplicity. The sensor applicator makes insertion almost painless!
    • The sensor is small and discreet, adhering comfortably to the skin, ensuring minimal discomfort during daily activities.

Data Accessibility and Connectivity:

Being able to access and share your data is essential for effective diabetes management and collaboration with healthcare providers.

  • MiniMed Medtronic Guardian CMG:
    • Connects via Bluetooth, allowing you to view your data on a smartphone or compatible insulin pump.
    • Offers remote monitoring for caregivers (parents, spouses) or healthcare professionals, enhancing support.
  • Freestyle Libre 3:
    • Connects via Bluetooth, enabling easy data access on a mobile device.
    • Allows sharing your glucose data with up to 20 followers, offering a robust solution for family support or remote healthcare consultations.

Cost and Insurance Coverage:

Cost considerations can significantly influence your choice of CGM system.

  • MiniMed Medtronic Guardian CGM:
    • May come with an upfront cost, and insurance coverage can vary depending on your provider.
    • You’ll also need to consider ongoing expenses for sensor replacements (monthly or 3-month supply).
  • Freestyle Libre 3:
    • May have a lower initial cost compared to other CGM systems, making it a cost-effective choice for some users. (Mine cost $75 for a 3-month supply = $25 per month).
CGM Sensor: Ease of use/insertion Accuracy Duration Cost
Medtronic Guardian Sensor •More complex, more steps – insert sensor + connect transmitter & adhesive tape overlay •Higher MARD ranking (than Freestyle Libre 3) 7 Days $$
Freestyle Libre 3 •Super simple – essentially 1 step (twist cap and press firmly down on applicator, hold for a few seconds & lift away)   •The most accurate 14-day CGM system   14 Days $
The most affordable CGM system, even without insurance coverage

Again, be sure to investigate your insurance plan to determine the extent of coverage for the Medtronic Guardian sensor and the Freestyle Libre 3.

Just like choosing between insulin pumps, choosing the right CGM sensor depends on your personal preferences, lifestyle, and diabetes management goals. Both CGM systems offer high accuracy, ease of use, data accessibility, and connectivity. For me, it boiled down to size/discreteness, cost and pump compatibility.

Please consult with your healthcare team and insurance provider to determine which CGM aligns best with your unique needs. Ultimately, the right choice is the one that empowers you to take control of your diabetes management, leading to a healthier and more fulfilling life.

Click here to read my blog post about the profound benefits of diabetes support groups

And remember, your diabetes management journey is unique to you. Explore options, ask questions, and empower yourself to make choices that enhance your quality of life.

I want to know, which insulin pumps and CGMs have you tried? Which ones do you love or hate and why? Please share in the comments below!

–To your best heath, Allison

My Type 1 Diabetes Story: 28 Years of Highs, Lows, and Everything in Between

Disclaimer: The content you’re about to read may contain affiliate links to products I love and recommend. Which means, I may earn a small commission from items purchased through these links (at no additional cost to you) which helps me provide even more awesome content for you 😊 I appreciate your support!

Hey friends! It’s November, which means it’s Diabetes Awareness Month, and I’m excited to celebrate it with you all by sharing my own story. This Christmas Eve, I’ll be marking my 28th “diaversary” — yep, 28 years since my diagnosis with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D). It’s wild to think I’ve had diabetes for over half of my life! I can barely even remember what my life was like pre-diabetes. It’s been a journey full of ups, downs, a few epic rescues, some truly “sweet” adventures, and a lifetime of unexpected lessons.  

So, grab your favorite snack, maybe a juice box if you’re really feeling the T1D vibe, and let’s dive into my story! 

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Where It All Began - The Diagnosis: Christmas Eve Surprise

Every story has a beginning, so here’s mine. It was Christmas Eve, and I had just turned 12 a couple of weeks prior. I was in sixth grade, feeling as miserable as any kid who should be enjoying holiday break but instead couldn’t seem to shake feeling pretty lousy—constantly thirsty, running to the bathroom a million times a day, and losing weight like crazy. I didn’t know it then, but these are classic symptoms of diabetes.  

On Christmas Eve, while most kids were dreaming of presents, I was lying listlessly in bed, barely conscious. My parents had taken me to the doctor earlier, and I’d been prescribed antibiotics for what we thought was a standard winter bug. But things just kept getting worse, and when my dad checked in on me that evening, he knew something was very wrong. One ambulance ride later, we were at the University of Michigan Children’s Hospital, where I spent the rest of the holiday learning about Type 1 Diabetes. It was a shocker, for sure. Suddenly, life as I knew it was forever changed. 

Growing Up with Diabetes - More than Just Shots and Juice Boxes

The early years with T1D were tough. I avoided talking about it with friends, partly because I couldn’t get through a conversation without tearing up and partly because I just hated it. Playing basketball was a challenge because of the constant blood sugar swings, and I quickly became known for carrying glucose tabs and juice boxes everywhere. I hated feeling shaky, dizzy, and out of control. And let’s be honest, I hated feeling “different.” 

Sleepovers and dinner outings? Pure anxiety! Back in the pre-pump days, I was giving myself insulin shots. I couldn’t stand when friends’ parents would say, “I don’t know how you do it. I could never poke myself like that!” It was hard enough without people pointing it out. It’s not like I had a choice! The reality was, I either learned to give myself injections or… well, let’s not go there. The constant comments and awkward questions left me feeling embarrassed, and eventually, I got tired of explaining myself. So, I stopped testing and giving shots as often as I should. 

Then, in 1999, I got my first insulin pump. It was a Medtronic MiniMed 508, and that little device changed the game for me. No more injections, but it also meant this beeping device on my hip drew lots of attention. Teachers thought it was a pager going off in class (this was the ‘90s after all), and one friend’s older sister teased me for wearing it at the beach, asking, “Why’d you bring your pager? You think you’re that cool?” Let me tell you, that was a tough time to be a teen with T1D. 

College & Finding My Way

Heading to college was another huge milestone. I had to learn to manage my diabetes independently, without the close monitoring and support of my mom.  

Of course, I made some rookie mistakes along the way. I once totally miscalculated my supply order and ran out of pump infusion sets. Luckily, I remembered a friend from high school and diabetes camp who also went to Michigan State. A quick message to her, and I was running across campus to her dorm for a few backup infusion sets to hold me over. That’s the thing about the diabetes community—we’re all in this together, and support each other. 

Managing T1D in college wasn’t just about supplies; I also had to navigate social situations that challenged my comfort zone. Drinking was a whole new ballgame. Figuring out that alcohol, when mixed with T1D, is just…well, complicated. I had to learn what worked for me through trial and error, and sometimes that meant midnight trips for snacks to keep my blood sugar up after a night out. It was a balancing act I learned the hard way a few times, but I got the hang of it, carrying glucose tabs and juice boxes like part of the outfit. 

Dating with T1D: From Hiding to Confidence

Dating with T1D was nerve-wracking at first. My high school boyfriend was understanding, but when I’d go out with him, I’d disconnect my pump just to avoid talking about it. I’d convinced myself that people wouldn’t want to “deal with” my diabetes. That feeling intensified when a friend’s boyfriend saw my pump infusion site at the pool one day and whispered, “What’s that thing on her stomach?” I was mortified. From then on, every time I went to the beach or pool, I’d pull off my infusion site, determined to avoid more awkward questions. I didn’t want anyone to think I was “sick” or “different,” so I went to ridiculous lengths to hide my T1D, even if it meant sky-high glucose levels. 

By the time I met my now-husband, I realized that the right person wouldn’t care. When I told him about my T1D, he didn’t flinch. In fact, he became my biggest support, carrying juice boxes and reminding me to pack low snacks for hikes. He even helps change my infusion site when it’s hard to reach—now that’s love. 

The Power of Camp and Giving Back

One of the best parts of my diabetes journey was attending diabetes camp. Going to camp surrounded by other kids who understood what I was going through was a game-changer. It helped me build confidence, feel normal, and learn that I wasn’t alone. I loved it so much that, later on, I returned as a counselor. Giving back to these kids as they navigated their own journeys was so rewarding. Helping them feel empowered with T1D brought me so much joy, and honestly, being a counselor allowed me to grow too. 

The diabetes camp I attended as a camper back in Michigan was called Camp Midicha, and the camp I attended as an adult diabetes counselor (DC) in Arizona is called Camp AZDA. Some of the long-time T1D community members, often called the ‘Betic Army’ branched off and created The Diabetes Network of AZ, in hopes of bringing the magic of camp back into families and communities all year long! I am proud to be aligned with this exceptional organization!  

Click here to read more about daibetes camps and support groups on my blog post!

Plus, it led me to try some seriously cool new things like zip-lining, white-water rafting, and skydiving! Diabetes has never held me back from adventure. Just ask me about the time I got choppered off Superstition Mountain — there’s always a good story waiting! 

Walking Down the Aisle with T1D

Getting married was one of the most beautiful days of my life, and I chose to keep my pump and diabetes gear out of sight on my wedding day (you can read about that here on my wedding dress blog post). I had a custom pocket sewn into my dress, and I skipped the CGM sensor. I checked my blood sugars on my own time, and everything went off without a hitch! It was a day to focus on love and joy — diabetes was present, but it didn’t get center stage. 

The Journey to Motherhood Pregnancy with T1D: A Whole New Level

And then came pregnancy, which is a whole journey in itself! It could fill a blog post of its own (and someday it will!), but let me just say that navigating pregnancy with T1D was hands down the hardest thing I’ve ever done.  

I suffered two miscarriages before successfully delivering my daughter early at 36 weeks, which made every day of each pregnancy feel precious and high-stakes. I stayed laser-focused and checked my blood sugar non-stop, adjusted my insulin doses like a full-time job, and dialed my A1C in to 5.8 (the lowest it’s ever been in my life) check, even when it felt impossible. 

It paid off with the birth of my two beautiful children, who are everything to me. We faced some challenges, like NICU stays, but I wouldn’t change a thing. The postpartum period brought its own diabetes challenges, too. Adjusting basal rates, breastfeeding, and pumping were exhausting but rewarding. There’s nothing quite like the first time you’re alone with the baby and experience low blood sugar — talk about a panic moment! But I got through it, and I’m proud of how far I’ve come. 

Embracing Today and Looking Ahead to the Future

These days, I’m living in the present, grateful for every step of this journey. T1D has taught me resilience, compassion, and strength. I’ve accomplished things I never thought possible, and while diabetes isn’t always easy, it’s part of what makes me me. I’ve learned to approach each day with gratitude and hope for the future. 

Looking back on nearly three decades with diabetes, I can honestly say I wouldn’t be who I am without it. Sure, it’s tough. It requires constant attention, planning, and patience (especially on low-sugar days). But it’s also introduced me to the most incredible people and made me feel more empowered. I’ve got a community that feels like family, and every shared story reminds me that I’m not in this alone. 

Today, I manage my T1D with a combo of technology, experience, and a lot of humor. I rock a Omnipod insulin pump and Freestyle Libre 3 continuous glucose monitor (CGM), which has been a game-changer. My A1C is better than ever, and I feel more in control. But T1D will always keep me on my toes. I’ve learned that the only constant is change, and I’m okay with that. 

As I look forward, I’m excited to see where this journey will take me next. And if you’re wondering how I navigate the big stuff (like life insurance, traveling with T1D,  and the secrect benefit of diabetes), I’ve got some blog posts on that, too! My goal is to help others with T1D live their best lives — to dream BIG and never let diabetes hold them back. 

So, here’s to all the “Betics” out there— let’s keep lifting each other up, pushing each other to take on new adventures, and share our stories to show the world what T1D warriors look like! 

Thank you so much for reading and being a part of my story. If you’ve got a diabetes journey of your own, I’d love to hear about it in the comments! Let’s keep sharing, learning, and celebrating this community that has lifted me up for the past 28 years. Happy Diabetes Awareness Month, friends! 

About Allison Gorman

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