A medical device controller operating in conjunction with a medical device determines one or more current versions of executable code associated with one or more processors in a medical device. Medical devices may include infusion pumps, other patient treatment devices as well as vital signs monitors. The medical device controller determines one or more current versions of executable code and configuration information associated with the one or more processors in the medical device. The medical device controller further determines which of the processors in the medical device require updated executable code, and which of the processors in the medical device require updated configuration information. The medical device controller distributes to the medical device as required at least one of the updated executable code and the updated configuration information. The medical device deploys the distributed updates, and activates the updates at a clinically appropriate time.