simplera device
tandem device v3

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 Tandem t:slim X2 is rechargeable, has a touch screen, and can be updated on a home computer.

*Control IQ+ Technology now available for ages 2+ 

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.

Tandem t:slim X2 : Pump

Tandem t:slim X2 : Pump

Touch screen pump connects tubing to a small patch called an infusion set that attaches to the body.

Tandem t:slim X2 : Cartridge

Tandem t:slim X2 : Cartridge

Tubed insulin pumps contain a plastic reservoir that is manually filled with insulin and locked into the pump.

Tandem t:slim X2 : Infusion Set

Tandem t:slim X2 : Infusion Set

An infusion set contains the thin plastic tubing that delivers insulin from the pump to the body.

Tandem t:slim X2 : Controller

Tandem t:slim X2 : Controller

Compatible smartphone can be used to view and control insulin delivery using the t:connect app.

Device Details

Overview

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

Smallest tubed pump. Modern interface resembles a smartphone but tubing may be visible. 

Affordability and Access

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

$$$$
Widely covered for insulin-dependent type 1 and 2. Supplies and pump provided by DME. Price range; $0-$4000 to start and $0-$300/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
Tandem t:slim mobile app wirelessly uploads cloud-based Tandem Source web application delivering access to recent patient 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
Data is viewed on the pump's main screen and/or on a smartphone with the Tandem t:slim mobile app (available for both iOS and Android devices).

Duration and Storage

7 Days
Sensors last 7 days. 

3 Days
Pump can be worn for up to 72 hours and works between 40°F - 99°F

Vision / Auditory / Dexterity

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

NO 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.

Exercise mode. Optional settings for exercise to adjust treatment ranges for activity with the press of a button. Pump is not waterproof. 

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. 

Precise dosing. Pumps allow different amounts of basal insulin at different times of day and very precise dosing.

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.

Smallest tubed pump. Small patch called an infusion set consists of a complete tubing system that attaches to the body. Tubed pumps have the most infusion sets to pick from. 

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

Customizable dosing. Bolus calculator available to help figure out doses. Offers smallest increments of basal insulin delivery. Basal in 0.001 increments, bolus in 0.01 increments.

Easy to Use

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

Rechargeable. Pump has a touch screen display and rechargeable battery. 

Fewer Fingersticks

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

Frequent finger-sticks are required. 

Privacy

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

Discreet. Smallest tubed pump with visible tubing. Ability to bolus directly on a compatible smartphone. Can be clipped to clothing or placed in a pocket to be discreet when needed. Touchscreen of pump looks like normal tech device.