Has anyone used the minikink real-time transmitter with the paradigm real-time insulin pumps??? if u have, wt r ur thoughts, and how much do they cost?

I have! I know it's expensive and my family's insurance (Blue Cross Blue Shield) doesn't cover it. Definitely four figures worth of supplies, but I don't remember specifics.
As for how it is, it's basically another injection besides changing your infusion site, and it's supposed to be every three days but it's common to do it every six days and still be fine. And if having an insulin pump gives you that "I'm a cyborg" feeling then having the continuous monitor doesn't help. t's extremely helpful, however, for people who are having weird numbers and having to check their sugar lots of times per day.
However, there's a calibration time of about 2-3 weeks before the readings start to mean anything. I found that annoying because my doctor didn't tell me that until AFTER it was already stuck in me! Using the continuous monitor is definitely a commitment. Since its a separate device from your insulin pump, I'd recommend using it only if you're experiencing weird fluctuations in blood sugar that you'd like to sort out.
The NEXT insulin pump from MedTronic will have the continuous monitor built right in to the infusion site, so you will only need one device. That sounds a lot easier! This new model, according to my doctor, is due out within a year, and that's what I'm waiting for before I use the continuous monitor again.

Do you have any idea what the new model is? I have had many problems with being low and not having symptoms and getting the runaraound from BCBS on the continous glucose monitor - doing it without insurance not an option but I have good reason for it. I would figure if monitor/pump are all one thing then may lead to better chance for approval. Any information on the new pump & monitor would be greatly appreciated seeing as I cannot find anything on Medtronic's site.