Note: This post was updated 4/06/2020 to reflect new advisory communication.
As the global impact of the coronavirus (COVID 19) continues to unfold, Tandem Diabetes Care has taken steps to protect the health, safety and well-being of our customers, employees, and communities.
Our business is continuing to fully operate. At our headquarters in San Diego, where “stay in place” restrictions were issued by California’s governor, most of our teams are working remotely. Our manufacturing and warehouse facilities continue to operate as normal, as healthcare operations are deemed critical by the State, so that we can provide products and supplies to Tandem customers around the world.
We take the current COVID-19 health crisis very seriously and are constantly monitoring the situation. If you are calling to speak with a member of our team in Product Technical Support, Sales Support, or Supplies Reordering, you may experience longer hold times or processing as a result of the actions we’ve taken in response to this uniquely challenging situation. We apologize if you do experience longer wait times and thank you for your patience and understanding.
Here’s a quick Q&A on how we’re working to protect our customers, our supply chain, and our employees:
Q: Will supply orders be affected?
A: Our supplies continue to be available through Diabetes Express. We are currently working with Health Canada and the Canadian Customs Office to ensure the smooth and timely transport of these essential supplies across the border. Given the COVID-19 pandemic there have been some interruptions in processing of shipments. We have taken steps to ensure that all of our customers have what they need during this uniquely challenging situation. We apologize if you do experience changes to your normal ordering process and thank you for your patience and understanding.
Q: Will there be a shortage of t:slim X2™ insulin pumps?
A: No, we do not anticipate a shortage of pumps at this time.
Q: What’s the status on international supplies?
A: Globally, our distribution network is fully operational and we’re taking ongoing steps to prevent any impact from COVID-19. We’re currently confident about being able to meet the needs of our international customers.
For Canada, our supplies continue to be available through Diabetes Express. We are currently working with Health Canada and the Canadian Customs Office to ensure the smooth and timely transport of these essential supplies across the border. Given the COVID-19 pandemic there have been some interruptions in processing of shipments. We have taken steps to ensure that all of our customers have what they need during this uniquely challenging situation. We apologize if you do experience changes to your normal ordering process and thank you for your patience and understanding.
Q: If I’m undergoing quarantine away from home, will I still be able to get my supplies?
A: If you or someone you know is involved in a travel ban or quarantine related to COVID-19, please contact us. We are committed to doing everything we can to coordinate the delivery of supplies to prevent an interruption in pump therapy.
Q: What are you doing to protect the health of your employees?
A: On a voluntary basis and until further notice, eligible employees are encouraged to work remotely. We have requested that employees avoid domestic and international air business travel, and under no circumstances is business travel permitted to countries listed as Level 3 on the CDC advisory. We may also restrict employees from returning to a work location for a minimum of 14 days if they have traveled to an area with widespread community outbreak. Guests will not be allowed at Tandem buildings unless they are essential to the operation of the company.
Reminders:
Cleaning Your Pump
One of the CDC's recommended practices to help prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses, is cleaning frequently touched surfaces and objects daily. Insulin pumps are kept close to the body and touched often out of necessity. We suggest cleaning your pump along with your other frequently handled objects. When cleaning your pump, use a damp lint-free cloth. Do not use household or industrial cleaners, solvents, bleach, scouring pads, chemicals, or sharp instruments. Never submerge the pump in water or use any other liquid to clean it. Do not place the pump in the dishwasher or use hot water to clean it. If needed, use only a very mild detergent, such as a bit of liquid soap with warm water. When drying your pump, use a soft towel.
Wipe the outside of your Dexcom transmitter with a damp lint-free cloth or isopropyl alcohol wipe between uses.
At Tandem, we’re working diligently to serve our customers during this unfolding situation.
All the best,
Tandem Diabetes Care