Medtronic MiniMed 780G recognized as a ‘World-Changing Idea’

Fast Company has named the Medtronic (NYSE:MDT) MiniMed 780G automated insulin delivery system among the “Best World-Changing Ideas” of 2024.

The next-generation MiniMed 780G system won FDA approval just over a year ago. It uses the latest Guardian 4 technology and requires no fingersticks while in “SmartGuard” mode. The system provides meal detection technology providing automatic adjustments and corrections to sugar levels every five minutes. This occurs for both basal (background) and bolus (mealtime) insulin needs.

Earlier this year, a third-party survey that evaluates U.S. diabetes patient satisfaction on a quarterly basis listed the system as the top AID offering on the market. Now, Fast Company included it in the Best World-Changing Idea, North America category within the 2024 World-Changing Ideas Awards.

MiniMed 780G is one of 12 finalists and became the fourth Medtronic offering to make the list in each of the past four years. GI Genius, Micra and Medtronic LABS previously made the cut.

Fast Company’s selection process included innovations in health, education, energy, AI and more. A panel of the organization’s editors and reporters selected from more than 1,300 entries across 50 categories.

“The recognition of the MiniMed 780G system as a World-Changing Idea reflects our commitment to simplifying diabetes care and reducing the mental burden of this relentless disease,” said Que Dallara, EVP and president, Medtronic Diabetes. “We’re pleased to receive this honor and will keep working tirelessly to continue empowering individuals with the technology they need to thrive with type 1 diabetes.”

GlobalData analysts have more good news on Medtronic Diabetes

GlobalData, a data and analytics firm, says Medtronic’s MiniMed could significantly enhance medtech sustainability efforts with its extended infusion set.

Medtronic launched its Extended Infusion Set — the first and only infusion set labeled for wearing of up to seven days — in 2022. The infusion sets for delivering insulin from a pump to the body typically requires changing every two to three days.

According to GlobalData, use of a typical infusion set means annual usage of anywhere from 120 to 180 sets and cartridges per patient. With a seven-day infusion set like Medtronic’s, that number could drop to 52. GlobalData medical analyst David Beauchamp said devices like this could reduce the amount of waste by approximately 60%.

“Extended infusion sets and reservoirs are a growing niche within the insulin pump market,” Beauchamp said. “In addition to saving patients’ time and energy by reducing the number of set changes, these extended sets have the potential to reduce the amount of medical waste generated by the diabetes care device market by a significant percentage. As the use of this and similar devices increases, it is likely that diabetes care will become less wasteful while maintaining patients’ standard of care.”