Medtronic’s closed-loop MiniMed 670G now available on NHS in some areas

Medtronic’s hybrid closed-loop system, the MiniMed 670G, is now available on the NHS in areas of the UK that can fund it.
The MiniMed 670G is a combined insulin pump and CGM system that uses artificial intelligence to detect and deliver when and how much basal insulin is needed. The system is programmed to respond every 5-minutes to any changes in glucose levels and make adjustments to insulin delivery if required.
The 670G represents a step closer to a fully automated artificial pancreas. The user needs to programme bolus doses for meals, but the system is able to adjust insulin at other times to minimise the extent and risk of high and low glucose levels.
The system has been available in the United States, for 14-year-olds and over, since September 2017, and for 7- to 13-year-olds since July 2018.
Chief Executive of the type 1 diabetes charity JDRF, Karen Addingto, said: “Type 1 diabetes can be tough to live with. But new technologies can reduce the burde, offering individuals and their families the chance to think less about the condition.
“JDRF provided initial funding that supported research into closed-loop systems, as part of its mission to provide life-changing treatments whilst researching the cure.”
Laura Dunion from Leeds was fitted with the 670G in November 2018 and was one of three people in the UK to receive the technology early.
The 17-year-old, who was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes aged eight, said: “This technology helps me feel more independent. With less blood sugar checks, I don’t have to spend so much time worrying about my type 1.”
Laura’s mother, Lynn Dunio, said the technology has been a big relief to her also. She added: “It is a huge fear for parents that children will have a hypo during the night, so this is life-changing for me too.”
The MiniMed 670G can be used by people over the age of seven who take at least eight units of insulin per day and meet national guidelines and criteria. Local policies will dictate whether the 670G system will be available in your area or whether alternative technology is available.