Regina, I find myself feeling the exact same way. I was on the Dexcom G5 and T:slim X2 (non-integrated) until I switched to Medtronic 670G, only because of the new hybrid closed-loop technology. I absolutely loved my tandem and I absolutely loved by Dexcom–in every way: customer service, accuracy, shipping, ease of use, etc. Yet, having used pump technology for years, I couldn’t help myself from checking out this new tech.
To compliment your thoughts and serve as another witness to others, I must say that the 670G system has the potential to be an excellent insulin pump but it really isn’t at the present time. In my experience, the new guardian sensor IS more accurate than the Enlite but it still lags in comparison to Dexcom’s accuracy. Considering Dexcom is about to release the G6, one would think Medtronic would have made a better sensor to out perform the competition.
Other things:
The 670G system constantly wakes me up (2am, 4am, etc) asking for calibrations and frequently gives many more “safety” alerts because (from my understanding) the FDA mandated that they be installed. There have been many days when my pump is vibrating more than my phone and as a 26yo, that is impressive yet also incredibly annoying. Yes this is new technology but we aren’t stupid people and do not need 60 alerts a day.
The battery–I became very happy with the T:slim’s rechargeable ability because you can charge it anywhere, anytime and each charge lasts a very long time, at least a week. I have already changed the 670G’s battery 3 times in 2 months. At one point, I was on the soccer field and the battery just died. There was no “you have 5 hours left” or anything. I was in the middle of a game! I was not happy to have to leave my responsibilities to replace a battery. This is the age of rechargeable batteries, you would think a modern pump would take advantage of that.
Finger sticks–I got on the Dexcom G5 because I wasn’t testing my sugar enough times. I hated doing it more than once a day so the Dr. recommended the dex. This really helped me stay in range longer and significantly lowered my A1c. I rarely had to test more than twice a day. With the 670G, I HAVE to test at least 5-6 times per day to remain in Auto Mode and I’m not even exaggerating, I have had days where I have been asked by the pump to put in over 12 finger sticks. That’s just a problem–especially for someone who could barely do twice a day!
Calibrations–Dexcom calibrations are immediate. Once you put in your reading, the dex immediately calibrates in one second. The 670G calibrations are quicker than the 630G which is great (take about 5 minutes) BUT if your finger stick is simnifically different from the 670G sensor reading, it actually says “not accepted” which is just funny to me. Like it doesn’t accept it so you have to wait 20 minutes for the pump to allow you to input a new reading. This is especially fun at 3am when the pump wakes you up for a calibration and tells you “calibration not accepted; please wait to enter new BG” and you’re thinking, “um…no? I have work in the morning…”
Basically, until Tandem and Bigfoot Technology can get their tech/algorithms approved by the FDA, this is the only system that in my opinion, (if you’re willing to go through all these setbacks), has the potential to change the way you manage your diabetes. However, the second Tandem comes out with the same technology, I’m jumping ship. Medtronic is on the right track but they appear to be the Microsoft to the Apple. Thanks for your stories! It’s great to know I’m not alone.