simplera device
DexcomG6

Summary

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.

This sensor lasts for 10 days and only needs finger sticks as a backup. Dexcom G6 has 3 parts - sensor, transmitter, and receiver. Data can be viewed on a compatible mobile device or a separate receiver. Optional low and high blood sugar notifications are available for this system. 

 

FDA approved for insertion on the abdomen (indicated for patients age 2 years and older) or the upper buttocks (ages 2-17 years).

 

MARD of 9%

Components

Simplera : Sensor

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

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.

Dexcom G6 : Sensor

Dexcom G6 : 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.

Dexcom G6 : Transmitter

Dexcom G6 : Transmitter

Sends readings from sensor to device, clips into sensor. Can be used for 90 days.

Dexcom G6 : Receiver

Dexcom G6 : Receiver

Receives data automatically from the transmitter. Can be substituted by compatible smartphone and smartwatch. Available for both iOS and Android devices.

Device Details

Overview

The Simplera is Medtronic's smallest continuous glucose monitor. It's disposable and has a flat, square shape.

Small sensor can be worn in multiple areas.

Affordability and Access

$$$$
No insurance coverage data. Provided by DME and/or Pharmacy. 

$$$$
Widely covered. Provided by DME and/or Pharmacy. Price range; $0-$500/month.

Data Monitoring Options

Yes
Automatically and continuously sends data to the user’s Care Partner web-based cloud which is accessible by clinicians. 

Yes
Automatically and continuously sends data to the user’s Dexcom Clarity web-based cloud which is accessible by clinicians. Data upload is possible with Glooko and Tidepool data-management systems.

Data View Options

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. 

Yes
Users must download the Dexcom G6 and Dexcom Clarity apps to view and share data. Both apps provide multiple data views, sharing options, and access through the clinician portal using a code from the user's device. Caregivers can use the Dexcom Follow app to view data. Glooko and Tidepool can also be used to view data. 

Duration and Storage

7 Days
Sensors last 7 days. 

10 Days
Sensors last 10 days, and transmitters last 90 days. They are shipped 3 boxes at a time every 3 months – 9 sensors and 1 transmitter. Works at 50ºF – 108ºF

Vision / Auditory / Dexterity

YES text to speech
YES vibration alerts
3 sound sources
SOME dexterity needed

YES text to speech
YES vibration alerts
3 sound sources
A LOT of dexterity needed

Patient Considerations

Active Lifestyle

Waterproof when submerged in water and must be within range of the feet of the receiver or mobile device.

Water-resistant when submerged in 2.4 meters of water and must be within 20 (unobstructed) feet of the receiver or mobile device.  

Avoiding Highs and Lows

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. 

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

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.

Low profile and low maintenance sensor application.

Easy Insulin Dosing

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

Real-time data and alerts make dose adjustment easier.

Easy to Use

No scanning is required. Readings are sent directly to the mobile app every 5 minutes.

Flexible pump integration. Can be paired with multiple different types of pumps which gives flexibility for how to use the data.

Fewer Fingersticks

Factory-calibrated sensor. Finger sticks needed for backup only.

Factory-calibrated sensor. Finger sticks needed for backup only.

Privacy

Discreet. Small, flat shape and ability to see sugar on a watch or phone.

Hypoglycemia safety alarm. Discreet but built-in hypoglycemia safety alarm alerts users when glucose is below 55 mg/dl and is always on.