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Select Device Freestyle Lingo Freestyle Libre 3 Freestyle Libre 2 Freestyle Libre 14 Day Dexcom G7 Dexcom G6 Dexcom Stelo Guardian Connect Medtronic Simplera Eversense Meter Omnipod Omnipod Dash Medtronic 780G Medtronic 630G Tandem t:slim X2 Bigfoot Unity Medtronic InPen Tempo Pen NovoPen 6/NovoPen Echo Insulin Pen Afrezza CeQur Simplicity Patch V-Go Patch Omnipod GO Patch Syringe and Vial Beta Bionics iLet Pancreas Control IQ with Dexcom Control IQ with Freestyle Libre Medtronic 780G with Smart Guard Omnipod 5 Tandem Mobi Tidepool Loop twiist DIY Loop Apple Series 6/7/8/9/10/SE (2nd Generation) Garmin vívosmart 5™ Garmin Venu Sq 2 Garmin Venu 3 Garmin vivoactive 5 Garmin Fenix 8 Garmin vivofit jr 3 Garmin Forerunner 165/265/965 Garmin epix (Gen 2) Garmin Enduro 3 Fitbit Ace LTE Fitbit Charge 6 Fitbit Inspire 3 Fitbit Versa/Versa 2/4/Versa Lite Fitbit Sense 2 Fitbit Luxe Google Pixel 2/3 Samsung Galaxy 4/5 Xiaomi Mi Band 9 Oura Ring Whoop 4.0 Withings ScanWatch 2 Withings ScanWatch Lite Pedometer 3D Pedometer
Summary
The Medtronic Guardian Connect is a continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system that provides real-time glucose data on a compatible smartphone. The system offers optional low and high blood sugar notifications and can be inserted on the abdomen or back of the upper arm.
MARD of 9.6%
The Simplera continuous glucose monitor (CGM) is Medtronic’s first disposable, all-in-one CGM. This sensor lasts for 7 days and sends real-time glucose readings to a compatible smartphone app or directly on an Apple Watch. No finger pricks or scanning is needed.
FDA-approved for people with diabetes ages 2 years and older.
Components
Guardian Connect : Sensor
Sensor is inserted underneath the skin, either on the abdomen or arm. Push buttons applicator allows sensor to be placed on the body in one step.
Guardian Connect : Transmitter
Seashell-shaped with built-in Bluetooth capability that allows it to send glucose data directly to a smartphone every 5 minutes.
Guardian Connect : Receiver
Trends and alerts are viewed directly on a mobile device. Available for both iOS and Android devices.
Simplera : Sensor
Sensor uses a thin, flexible filament inserted just under the skin to measure glucose levels every 5-minutes. Push-button applicator allows sensor to be placed on the body in one step.
Simplera : Receiver
Conveniently access glucose readings using a reader, smartphone, or directly on an Apple Watch. Phone app available for both iOS and Android devices.
Device Details
Overview
One of the larger sensors, may be cumbersome to wear on some parts of the body under clothes.
The Simplera is Medtronic's smallest continuous glucose monitor. It's disposable and has a flat, square shape.
Affordability and Access
$$$$
Sometimes covered. The costs vary depending on individual insurance coverage and how insurance classifies CGMs. Price range $0-$600/month.
$$$$
No insurance coverage data. Provided by DME and/or Pharmacy.
Data Monitoring Options
Yes
CGM data can be linked to a CareLink account and shared with the user's health care team.
Yes
Automatically and continuously sends data to the user’s Care Partner web-based cloud which is accessible by clinicians.
Data View Options
Yes
The Guardian Connect mobile app allows users to view glucose levels, trends, create customizable alerts, and share blood glucose data with family and friends.
Yes
Users must download the Simplera app to view and share data. Messages via the simplera app or text messages to notify care partners when glucose is high or low.
Duration and Storage
7 Days
Sensors last 7 days, and transmitter battery needs weekly charging and replacement once a year. Both can be stored between 36°F - 86°F.
7 Days
Sensors last 7 days.
Vision / Auditory / Dexterity
YES text to speech
YES vibration alerts
A LOT of dexterity needed
YES text to speech
YES vibration alerts
3 sound sources
SOME dexterity needed
Patient Considerations
Active Lifestyle
Waterproof transmitter when submerged in up to 2.5 meters of water for 30 minutes and must be within 20 feet of a connected mobile device.
Waterproof when submerged in water and must be within range of the feet of the receiver or mobile device.
Avoiding Highs and Lows
Measures sensor glucose 24/7 and sends alerts when a high or low is detected. Trend arrows show the direction glucose is heading, with the rate of change.
Custom alerts can be set for highs, lows, and rapidly rising or falling glucose levels. Trend arrows show the direction glucose is heading, with the rate of change.
Comfort
More tape is needed for Medtronic sensors.
Smaller size. The sensor is small and flat, and no overtape is required. Simplera’s adhesive is made from an anti-lint material that prevents sweat and water from reaching the sensor.
Easy Insulin Dosing
Sensor trends can be used for dose adjustment.
Real-time data and alerts make dose adjustment easier. The device can be integrated with the Medtronic InPen, which offers a bolus calculator based on carb ratios, meal estimations, the amount of insulin on board, and fixed dosing regimens
Easy to Use
Rechargeable sensor transmitter but has the most steps to change sensor.
No scanning is required. Readings are sent directly to the mobile app every 5 minutes.
Fewer Fingersticks
2 daily finger-sticks are needed to calibrate the sensor.
Factory-calibrated sensor. Finger sticks needed for backup only.
Privacy
Somewhat discreet. Ability to see sugar on watch or phone. Sensor requires regular meter use.
Discreet. Small, flat shape and ability to see sugar on a watch or phone.