simplera device
AFL device image v2

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.

The FreeStyle Libre 14-day is an all-in-one glucose sensor/transmitter that lasts for 14 days and only needs fingersticks as backup. . This sensor is a flash glucose monitor that requires scanning using a compatible smartphone app or a handheld reader. 

FDA approved for insertion on the back of the upper arm (ages 4 years and older).

 

MARD of 9.4%

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.

Freestyle Libre 14 Day : Sensor

Freestyle Libre 14 Day : Sensor

Sensor uses a thin, flexible filament inserted just under the skin to measure glucose levels every minute. Push-button applicator allows sensor to be placed on the body in one step.

Freestyle Libre 14 Day : Receiver

Freestyle Libre 14 Day : Receiver

Conveniently access glucose readings using a reader, smartphone, or both. 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.

All-in-one glucose sensor/transmitter can be worn on the upper arm. 

Affordability and Access

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

$$$$
Widely covered. Provided by pharmacies. Price range; $0-$100/month. Often the cheapest and easier to access sensor.

Data Monitoring Options

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

Yes
Automatic data transfer to LibreView each time Freestyle Libre 2 sensor is scanned. LibreView gives clinicians and users relevant glucose reports. Glooko and Tidepool can also be used to view data. 

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
Freestyle LibreLink app displays glucose readings directly on the patient's compatible smart device. 

Duration and Storage

7 Days
Sensors last 7 days. 

14 Days
Sensors last 14 days and work between 50ºF - 113ºF. They are shipped in orders of 1-3 months at a time - which is 2-6 boxes at a time.

Vision / Auditory / Dexterity

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

YES text to speech
YES vibration alerts
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 for up to 3 feet deep for 30 minutes and light on the body, does not get in the way of activity. The reader must be within 1.5 inches of the sensor to scan it. 

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. 

Alerts are not available. High or low glucose alarms are not available. 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.

Lowest profile sensor and smallest adhesive.

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

Scanned sensor readings can be used for dose adjustment.

Easy to Use

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

Requires scanning. Self-application and manual scanning every 8-hours are required. Easy self-application.

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.

Somewhat discreet. Scanning feature makes it easy to monitor blood glucose levels discreetly.