Interrogation of an implantable medical device using audible sound communication

Methods and apparatus for interrogation of implantable medical device (IMD) information, including programmed parameter values, operating modes and programmed changes thereof and data stored in the IMD, by emission of audible sounds by the IMD are disclosed. The IMD includes an audio transducer that emits audible sounds including voiced statements or musical tones stored in analog memory correlated to a programming or interrogation operating algorithm or to a warning trigger event. The audible sounds can comprise the sole uplink transmission or may augment the contemporaneous uplink RF transmission of stored data, and/or programmed operating modes and parameters and/or device operations and states in an interrogation or during programming. To conserve energy, the audible sounds accompanying interrogation and programming of the IMD are at a low volume that preferably cannot be heard without use of an external audio amplifier or stethoscope. Voiced statements warning of battery energy depletion or imminent delivery of a therapy are emitted at a higher volume that is sufficient to be heard by the patient, so that the patient can take appropriate action. The volume of audible sounds confirming programmed changes made by a patient using a limited function programmer or magnet is also increased so that the patient can hear them.